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Eastern Musk Turtle

Sternotherus odoratus

Also knwon as the stinkpot turtle.

COSEWIC Status: Special Concern

COSSARO Status: Special Concern

Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada

The committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada is a committee of experts who determine the national status of native species thought to be at risk of disappearing from Canada. Members include academics, specialists, Aboriginal people or government, & biologists.

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Species at Risk Status

Special Concern

This is a species of special concern because of characteristics that make it particularly sensitive to human activities or natural events.

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Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario

The committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario reviews the COSEWIC status reports for species that occur in Ontario, then makes recommendations on the appropriate provincial status of the species. Provincial status is identified on the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Species at Risk in Ontario (SARO) List.

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Species at Risk Status

Special Concern

This is a species of special concern because of characteristics that make it particularly sensitive to human activities or natural events.

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G. Clayton

Have you seen this species at risk? Report your sighting.

Food

• Aquatic insects and invertebrates, aquatic plants and carrion.

Habits and Reproduction

• Hibernation, under mud or logs, lasts from late October to April.
• If handled, the stinkpot turtle lives up to its name by releasing a musky smelling substance from under its carapace.
• Mating occurs from April to May, and possibly a second time in the fall.
• From late May to early July, clutches of 2-5 brittle eggs are laid in a hole dug in sandy soil, or beneath ground cover. Typically muskrat houses are used by the females for nesting sites.
• Males mature after 3 or 4 years, however females may not mature until they are 7 or older.
• May live to the age of 50.

Habitat

• A variety of wetlands, including ponds, rivers, marshes and lakes.
• Usually prefer a sand or gravel bottom.
• Rarely venture from the water even to bask.

Threats

• The main factor in their decline is the draining of wetlands and shoreline development.

Conservation Actions

• If you own waterfront property, you can help many wildlife species by keeping the shoreline in a natural state. The Muskoka Watershed Council has resource materials available to waterfront property owners.
• Read the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre’s guide to Turtle Nests and Nest Protection.
• Find an injured turtle? Please see the information on the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre’s website.