Common name : Semi-box turtle
Scientific name : Emys blandingii
Family : Emydidae
Native to : North America
Interesting fact : The shell has a hinge in the front, so it can be shut tightly when predators attack.
Conservation status : Endangered
It’s quite unique with a yellow chin and throat. The smooth shell is highly domed but flat in the centre. They don’t become adults till about 14 years only after which they mate. The semi-aquatic turtles are known to walk long distances on land. These omnivores thrive in shallow water-bodies and muddy areas and live for 80 years.