Clay Bolt Nature Photography

Stinkpot (Eastern Musk Turtle) Sternotherus odorata, swimming in shallow stream

The name Stinkpot (Sternotherus odorata) automatically gives away this small turtle's best defense tactic. When threatened, stinkpoints release a terrible musky odor, which has also earned them the name Eastern Musk Turtle. This individual's shell (carapace) was highly reflective as it swam downstream at the mouth of a shallow, freshwater stream.

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Filename: cbolt_07122008_DSCF0021.jpg
Image Size: 1707x2769 / 3.1MB; http://www.claybolt.com/; Stinkpot Eastern Musk Turtle Sternotherus odorata reptile turtle terrapin cold blooded shell carapice armor swim stream pond claw beneficial shy odor musk smell defense omnivore clay bolt South Carolina United States north america wetland
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The name Stinkpot (Sternotherus odorata) automatically gives away this small turtle's best defense tactic. When threatened, stinkpoints release a terrible musky odor, which has also earned them the name Eastern Musk Turtle. This individual's shell (carapace) was highly reflective as it swam downstream at the mouth of a shallow, freshwater stream.