Amazon Yellow Spotted River Turtle

One of South America's most delightful species, Yellow Spotted River Turtles are outstanding tank turtles in their younger years, and eventually grow to be excellent pond turtles as adults. Like yellow headed water bugs, these turtles swim like fish, enjoy deep tanks, love to bask, and put on an amazing under water show.

As a member of the most ancient genus of living turtles (Podocnemis), Yellow Spotted River Turtles make one of the most interesting species to keep. They are primarily herbivores, but will also quickly take insects, mollusks and fruit. Our hatchlings love pellets, cut fish, super worms and romaine lettuce. They prefer warmer temps, but our adult breeders weather brief temps in the 30s in deeper outdoor ponds.

Found in the major rivers and larger lakes of Venezuela, Colombia, Peru and throughout the Amazon Basin in Brazil, Yellow Spotted River Turtles have been over collected by man for decades and are now one of the world's rarest turtles. This species has been given the highest level of international protection, prohibiting both wild collection and export for many years. Only through the dedicated work of a few breeders is this species available in the US. Because of these important and necessary protections, our hatchlings can only be ordered by Florida residents.