Learn & Explore

Spiny Turtle

Despite their spiky protective shells, this tropical Southeast Asian species is still classified as endangered.

Spiny turtles (Heosemys spinosa) are so named because juveniles sport some seriously sharp scutes, or spines, on their shells to deter predators. The Academy's resident turtles enjoy a predator-free lifestyle, but do enjoy some hunting themselves—for corn on the cob, that is.