Rain entices terrapin out
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Duration: 3:41Ambient
Commentary
Filesize: About 124 MB
Resolution: 1280x720
Ambient
Commentary
Filesize: About 61 MB
Resolution: 854x480
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06 Nov, 2007
Patient observation reveals that this terrapin species is a male.
There has been about 100mm (4in) of rainfall in the last four nights in the Blyde Canyon, South Africa.
The wetness entices a marsh or helmeted terrapin (Pelomedusa subrufa) out into the open. This little reptile survives during the dry season by burrowing into moist soil, in this case a nearby riverbed.
It lies still when approached, withdrawing into the shell.
This looks like a young male, as its shell is slightly narrower than that of the female of the species. This difference allows the male to clasp the back of the female during mating.
After about 30 minutes, he slowly begins to peer out of his shelter.
As his head emerges further, it becomes apparent that he has two small protrusions under his chin. This is further confirmation of his sex, as he uses these to tickle the female as a precursor to mating.
As he heads off, we get a clear look at the length of his tail, longer than a female’s.
– by Paul Myburgh, Earth-Touch crew © Earth-Touch
More about this clip
Country: South Africa
Habitat: Deciduous or Evergreen Forest, Blyde River Canyon
Location: Blyde Canyon, South Africa
Tags: Marsh, Helmet, Terrapin, Male, Female, Mate, Shell, Rain, Blyde, Canyon, Wet, Burrow, Narrow, Expedition footage, Terrapin, Reptiles, Vertebrates, Blyde Canyon, South Africa, South Africa, Africa, Blyde River Canyon, Deciduous or Evergreen Forest
