Reproduction
- Courtship routines
The turtles become reproductively active at age 2 or 3. Courtship and mating behavior of these turtles is unique and was observed by P. Duda and K. Gupta in 1981. Courtship begins when the male begins stroking the female’s carapace with his neck and limbs extended. When receptive, the female faces the male with her neck extended and they will begin bobbing their heads vertically 3 or 4 times. This behavior is repeated 5-8 more times. Mating then begins when the female settles to the bottom and is mounted by the male. Near the end of mating, the male releases his grip and rotates to face the opposite direction from her. They remain attached in this position for as long as 15 minutes. During this time, the female may drag the male about. The pair then separates and copulation ends.
- Nesting
Nesting times occur during many periods in the year depending on habitat and location. Swampy areas with soil and exposure to sunlight are common nesting sites among these turtles. Eggs are usually laid 2 to 3 times per year in clutches of 2-16. These eggs are buried in soil for protection.
Read more about this topic: Indian Flapshell Turtle
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