Upemba Mud Turtles: Pelusious upembae

Now recognized as it’s own species, commonly called “Upemby Muds” this African turtle has the smallest range of them all – limited to two deep rivers in the Upemba National Park, in the Democratic Republic of The Congo.

Juveniles have very nice colors, very similar to their beautiful close cousin Pelusious niger (the West African Black Turtle).

Our adults have only grown to about 7 inches. They are typical carnivores. Our’s love pellets right out of the egg, and fish, meat and worms when ever we offer them.

Looking at their tiny range map, Upemby muds are cetainly one of the rarest of all the African species.

Not much is known about their habits and natural history because the small area they live in has been politically unstable for decades – preventing scientific study.

In the US only a few breeders work with Pelusious upembae.

We’ve worked with them for 5 years now and we have found them to be moderately cold tolerant (as adults) into the mid 40s and heat tolerant in water in the low 80s.

Hatchlings do great in inside temps.

They are the most easygoing and cooperative, getting along in large groups very well, and laying viable eggs in just their 5th year.

They are pretty, friendly, and have remarkable personalities – behaving more like your dog than anything else…

If you’d like a peek into the deep rivers of the Congo, or just to keep one of Africa’s rarest species, Upembae muds are the one !

• Puppy-Like Personality: They are very smart and quickly learn to recognize who brings them snacks.

• Unique Look: They have beautiful dark shells and “smiling” faces with tiny whiskers (called barbels) on their chins.

• Rare Explorers: These turtles come from a very small area in Africa, making them a “one-in-a-million” special pet for your home.

• Great Roommates: Unlike some grumpy turtles, Upembaes are famous for being gentle and getting along well with other turtle friends in large groups.

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How Your New Friend Travels to You

Sending a turtle through the mail might sound scary, but it’s actually a very safe “VIP trip” designed to keep them comfortable. Here is the kid-friendly version of their journey: How To Get Upembae Mud Turtle Online theturtlessources.com Is The Best Stop For You 

1. The Turtle Pajamas: Before they leave, we tuck the turtle into a soft cloth bag or a cozy “deli cup” with damp paper towels. This keeps them snug and stops them from sliding around.

2. A Magic Box: They travel in a special box that has thick foam walls. This foam acts like a shield to keep the temperature inside just right—not too hot and not too cold!

3. The Overnight Express: Turtles don’t like long trips, so they take the fastest route possible. They leave in the evening and arrive at your house the very next morning. It’s like they just took a long nap and woke up in a new place!

4. Weather Control: If it’s chilly outside, we tuck a tiny, 72-hour “hand warmer” into the box. If it’s a bit warm, we use a cool pack. It’s like their box has its own little heater or air conditioner.

5. Special Labels: The box is marked with bright “Live Animal” stickers so the delivery drivers know to be extra gentle and keep the box right-side up.