Northern Snake‑Necked Turtle

Scientific Name: Chelodina rugosa
Age: 4 years 
Current Size: 12”
Max/Adult Size: 10–12 inches (shell length)
Source: captive bred 
Exact Animal Pictured?: yes

Care

• Basking/Hot Spot Temp: 90–95°F
• Water Temperature: 75–82°F
• Humidity: Aquatic species — maintain clean, filtered water
• Recommended Enclosure Size:• Juvenile: 40–55 gallons
• Adult: Minimum 75–125 gallons; larger preferred

• Lighting: High‑output UVB required for basking area
• Aquatic Setup: Strong filtration, deep water, and a stable basking platform

Facts

• Northern Snake‑Necked Turtles are named for their extremely elongated neck, which can be nearly as long as their shell.
• They are ambush predators, striking sideways with lightning speed to capture fish, insects, and crustaceans.
• Unlike many turtles, they cannot fully retract their head, instead folding it sideways under the shell.
• Native to northern Australia and southern New Guinea, where they inhabit slow‑moving rivers, billabongs, and floodplains.