Big-Headed Turtle

Big-Headed Turtle key facts

Care level

Advanced

Lifespan

Maximum recorded longevity in captivity is 27 years

Size

Carapace up to 21.5cm, with males larger than females

Diet

Insects, crustaceans, molluscs, fish, tadpoles and prepared pellets

Temperature & Humidity

It does poorly in warm conditions and often stops feeding or declines when the water is too warm. Remember that it lives in hill and low-mountain streams, and keep the water from getting too warm.

Enclosure

It prefers shallow, cool running water, so keep the water shallow and moving with strong filtration. It is sensitive to poor water quality, and very frequent water changes with tap water can bring on fungal skin disease. It climbs using its limbs and tail, so fix the lid securely to prevent escapes.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous, taking insects, crustaceans, molluscs, fish and tadpoles. Some captive animals will accept prepared or dried foods.

Temperament

Bad tempered, it bites hard with a large hooked beak. It cannot withdraw its head, so forcing a restraint is dangerous and it must be handled with great care. House it singly as a rule.

Notes

The whole family Platysternidae was moved to CITES Appendix I with effect from 12 June 2013. In Japan the species is therefore an internationally endangered species, and every transfer requires an individual registration certificate. It is neither a designated dangerous animal nor an invasive alien species. Habitat loss and collection for food, medicine and the pet trade have caused a steep decline.

About Big-Headed Turtle

A guide to the Big-Headed Turtle, a nocturnal, stream-dwelling species known for its oversized head and long tail — an advanced-keeper species that can't retract its head into its shell.

7 things to know before welcoming a Big-Headed Turtle

1. 1Can't Retract Its Head

   The Big-Headed Turtle's head is so large — nearly as thick as the shell itself — that it cannot pull it back inside for protection. Instead, the sturdy head serves as its main defense, so it's worth avoiding sharp-edged tank decorations the turtle could strike its head against.

2. 2A Stream-Like Habitat

   In the wild these turtles live in mountain streams, so their enclosure should include flowing water along with a dry basking area or rocks to climb onto. Their claws are well developed for gripping rock, so a stable, secure layout helps them move around comfortably.

3. 3Cool Water Is Essential

   As a cold, fast-flowing stream species, it isn't suited to the warm water tropical turtles enjoy, and water temperature needs to be managed carefully through the seasons. It can be sensitive to shifts in water quality and temperature, so frequent checks are important.

4. 4Skilled Climber, Escape Risk

   Strong claws make this turtle a surprisingly capable climber, able to scale rocks and even mesh, so a secure lid and tall enclosure walls are a must. They're more active and mobile than their bulky head might suggest, so escape-proofing the setup is essential.

5. 5Bites Hard When Stressed

   With its oversized head and strong jaws, this turtle can deliver a firm bite when startled or handled roughly. It generally does best housed alone, and bare-handed handling should be kept to a minimum.

6. 6Nocturnal, Hides by Day

   This is a strongly nocturnal species that tends to stay tucked away and still during daylight hours. Providing a shelter or hiding spot helps it feel secure and settled during the day.

7. 7A Long-Term Commitment

   Captive individuals have reportedly lived as long as 27 years, so bringing one home means preparing for many years of care. As an advanced-keeper species, it's worth researching its needs and husbandry thoroughly before taking one on.

Frequently asked questions about Big-Headed Turtle

Q.Is this turtle suitable for beginners?

A.Big-Headed Turtles are generally considered an advanced-keeper species and aren't a great fit for someone new to reptile keeping. They need stream-like water quality and temperature management along with tank setups that protect their oversized head, all of which call for some prior experience.

Q.Why can't it pull its head into its shell?

A.Its head is roughly as thick as the shell itself, and the shell is somewhat flattened, so there simply isn't room to withdraw the head inside. Instead, the tough, bony head itself serves as the turtle's main line of defense.

Q.Can it be kept with other turtles?

A.Because it can be feisty and prone to biting, it generally does best kept alone. If housing more than one is being considered, watch closely for biting or signs of stress between them.

Q.How big does it get?

A.Shell length tops out at around 21.5 cm, with males typically growing larger than females. Since the head and tail are both large relative to the body, more space is often needed than the shell size alone would suggest.

Q.How long do they typically live?

A.The longest recorded captive lifespan is 27 years, so this is very much a long-term commitment. Before bringing one home, it's worth thinking through whether you can provide care for that many years ahead.

Useful tools for Big-Headed Turtle care

Learn more about Big-Headed Turtle in the encyclopedia

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