Reeves' Turtle

Looks how to spot one

carapace and plastron

The shell is oval or oblong and moderately domed, with three distinct keels running along the back: one prominent central keel and two less pronounced side keels. The carapace colour ranges from tan to dark brown, often with darker marks near the keels and lighter seams between the scutes. The plastron (underside) is tan or yellow with a large dark blotch on each scute, or sometimes uniformly dark brown. The skin on the head and neck is dark brown with solid or broken yellow stripes; the limbs and tail are usually olive or brown, sometimes with light markings on the forelimbs.2

Personality what they are like

Reeves' turtles are lively, inquisitive and sociable creatures. They enjoy basking together in groups and show a gregarious, friendly disposition. They are not aggressive and can be quite endearing, often actively exploring their enclosure and interacting with their keepers. Handling is not recommended as it can cause stress.54

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Diurnal and active during the day. They need a basking area with full-spectrum UVB lighting to raise body temperature for digestion and to dry their skin. They are not strong swimmers, so water depth should be shallow (less than 1.5 times shell length) with easy climbing access to the surface. They will use the entire enclosure and appreciate live or artificial plants for climbing and hiding.5

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

A good water filtration system is essential to keep the swimming water clean. All tap water must be treated with a water conditioner to remove chlorine. The basking area should be kept dry and clean. Shedding skin will slough off naturally with proper basking. No special grooming is needed beyond maintaining clean water and a suitable environment.4

Home where they are happiest

A single adult needs at least a 30-gallon tank, with 50 gallons or more preferable. Add 10-15 gallons for each additional adult. Water depth should be shallow (less than 1.5 times shell length) with easy climbing access. Provide a basking area with UVB light, and live or artificial plants for hiding. Outdoor ponds are ideal if protected from predators and extremes. The species is not an adept swimmer and prefers quiet, shallow water with soft, muddy or sandy bottoms. In some regions it may be protected or illegal to keep; always check local laws.52

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Omnivorous. In captivity they eagerly accept commercial turtle pellets with 30-40% protein, less than 20% fat, and a calcium-to-phosphate ratio of at least 2:1. Supplement with treats once or twice a week: earthworms, crickets, feeder fish, bloodworms, blackworms, and leafy greens such as romaine, redleaf, greenleaf, endive, escarole and kale. A varied diet keeps them stimulated.5

Company who they like around

They are a communal species and often bask in groups. They can be kept with other Reeves' turtles of similar size, but avoid overcrowding. They are not aggressive. In some countries this species may be protected or illegal to keep; always verify local regulations before acquiring one.53

The story where it all began

Reeves' turtle has been kept as a pet for many decades and is considered one of the most common and popular exotic turtle species in the pet trade. Its manageable size, endearing personality and relatively simple care requirements have made it a favourite among turtle enthusiasts worldwide. The species was described by John Edward Gray in 1831 and named after the British naturalist John Reeves, who collected specimens in China. In the wild it faces serious threats from overcollection for food and traditional medicine, as well as habitat loss, leading to its Endangered status on the IUCN Red List.563

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN Red List

Listed as Endangered (EN) due to overcollection and habitat loss3