The eastern musk turtle, or stinkpot, is Missouri’s smallest species of turtle and one of the smallest turtles in the world.
These darkly-colored aquatic turtles only grow to 4.5 inches and have a more dome-like shell than other aquatic turtles.
The name “stinkpot” suggests a smelly reputation and this turtle does not disappoint! Its official scientific name is Sternotherus odoratus — the “odoratus” comes from its ability to ooze a stinky substance from its sides when threatened.
