The shell covering the soft body parts is formed as part of the bone skeleton. They are covered by horny scales. In imminent danger, the turtle hides back in its shell where it is protected from predators.
European Pond Turtles live in freshwater. Like all turtle species they lay their eggs ashore. The female digs a hole near the water and put the eggs in it. Then they cover their nest with soil and leave the eggs to hatch in the sun.
| Size | 12-20 cm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 400-700 g |
| Reproduction | 9-15 eggs, after 80-120 days the subadults hatch out |
| Lifespan | till 100 years |
