Eastern Musk Turtle

Sternotherus odoratus is a species of small turtle in the family Kinosternidae. The species is native to southeastern Canada and much of the Eastern United States. It is also known commonly as the common musk turtle, eastern musk turtle, or stinkpot turtle due to its ability to release a foul musky odor from scent glands on the edge of its shell, possibly to deter predation. This turtle is grouped in the same family as mud turtles.

From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Is it venomous or poisonous?

We have no record of Eastern Musk Turtle being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.

Easily confused with

• Sternotherus intermedius
• Sternotherus minor
• Sternotherus carinatus
• Kinosternon baurii
• Kinosternon steindachneri
• Sternotherus peltifer

Classification

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Reptilia

Order

Testudines

Family

Kinosternidae

Genus

Sternotherus

Species

Sternotherus odoratus

More species