Mesoamerican Slider (Bocotora): Known for its green to brown shell with orange circles, often found in Belize’s freshwater bodies, feeding on vegetation and small prey.
Red-eared Slider: An invasive species from the southeastern USA, identified by its red stripe. Competes with natives and should never be released into the wild.
Central American River Turtle (Hicatee): Belize’s largest freshwater turtle, nocturnal, feeding on plants and fruits, but critically endangered due to overhunting.
Mexican Giant Musk Turtle: Recognized by its greenish-brown shell with raised ridges, a horned spine, and a strong bite, found in various aquatic environments.
Fun Facts
The Central American River Turtle, or Hicatee, holds the title of being Belize’s largest freshwater turtle, sometimes weighing over 25 lbs and living for more than 40 years.
Red-eared Sliders, though visually striking with their red stripes, are invasive in Belize, posing threats to native turtles through resource competition and disease transmission.
The Mexican Giant Musk Turtle is renowned for its powerful bite and adaptability, thriving in diverse aquatic environments.