About Pelomedusa galeata (Schoepff, 1792)
Size
This species, Pelomedusa galeata, commonly called the cape terrapin, has adults that average 26 cm (10 in) in straight carapace length, with exceptional individuals reaching up to 32.5 cm (12.8 in).
Distribution Range
The cape terrapin is distributed across all South African provinces, Eswatini, and southern Mozambique.
Distribution Exclusion
It is not found in the Bushmanland bioregion of the Northern Cape.
Habitat Requirements
Its habitat consists of fresh, stagnant water bodies, and it does not occur in mountainous or forested terrain.
Mating Period
For reproduction, cape terrapin mating takes place in spring.
Nesting Period
Nesting happens from late spring through autumn.
Nest Details
Females lay up to 30 eggs inside an 18 by 9 cm (7.1 by 3.5 in) nesting chamber located close to water.
Incubation Duration
Egg incubation lasts approximately three months.
