About the Fly River Turtle
The Fly River Turtle is a unique freshwater turtle known for its soft, leathery shell and distinctive snorkel-like nose. Unlike most turtles, it uses strong flipper-like limbs to move gracefully through the water, giving it a swimming style more similar to marine turtles. Calm and observant by nature, this species is well adapted to life in large rivers and slow-moving freshwater systems.
Habitat
Fly River Turtles are native to freshwater rivers, lagoons, and wetlands in Papua New Guinea and parts of northern Australia. They prefer warm water with sandy or muddy bottoms and access to vegetation. These environments provide space to swim, forage, and rest while maintaining stable water conditions. In professional care, they require spacious aquatic habitats with clean, warm water, strong filtration, and areas to rest near the surface.
Diet
Fly River Turtles are primarily herbivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, fruits, and vegetation found in and around their habitat. They may occasionally consume small aquatic invertebrates, especially when younger. A balanced diet supports shell health, growth, and overall vitality.
Interesting Facts
- Strong, agile swimmers
- Breathe air using a flexible, pig-like snout
- Spend most of their time in the water
- Generally peaceful but alert
- Known for their intelligence and awareness of their surroundings
- Unlike many turtles, they rely heavily on water movement and space rather than basking behavior
- The Fly River Turtle is one of the few freshwater turtles with flipper-like limbs
- Its soft shell allows for greater flexibility and swimming efficiency
- It can absorb oxygen through specialized tissue while underwater, helping it stay submerged longer
Why This Animal Matters
Fly River Turtles face challenges in the wild due to habitat loss, egg harvesting, and environmental changes. Responsible care, public education, and habitat protection play an important role in supporting their long-term well-being. Zoos and educational facilities help raise awareness about freshwater ecosystems and the importance of protecting river habitats around the world.
Support and Sponsor Fly River Turtle
Your sponsorship directly supports Fly River Turtle's care, habitat, and enrichment activities. When you sponsor an animal, you help provide food, veterinary care, habitat improvements, and enrichment. Choose a sponsorship level that works for you and make a difference for Fly River Turtle today.
All sponsorships are tax-deductible donations that go 100% toward animal care and welfare.
