• Length: up to 24 inches (60 c.m.)
• Weight: up to 50 lbs. (22 k.g.)
• Central American River Turtle has large webbed feet and a smooth shell
• Largest freshwater turtle in its range
• A small head with a pointed snout and large nostrils
• Males : have golden-yellow patch on head
• Females and juveniles : have grayish heads

• They do not bask on logs or river banks like other freshwater turtles, their webbed feet create awkward movement on land.
• Bask by floating on the water and can stay submerged for long periods.
• Most aquatic of freshwater turtles.
• Primarily nocturnal.
• Otters are regular predators.
• They nest twice a year in the flood season, April and December, when the water level has risen.
• The female digs a hole in the mud ( sand and clay as well )  near the water's edge and lays her eggs there.
• Each clutch can contain 6 to 26 hard-shelled eggs.
• While building the nest, the female will drink water regularly to prevent the walls from crumbiling and to ensure that they stay moist.

• Found in large open rivers and permanent  lakes.
• Prefer clear water (not found in seasonal or temporary ponds). 
• Tolerates brackish water.
• Very easy to catch .
• Meat and eggs are valued very highly.
• Hunted for food and for sport.

The turtle seems to be very laid back. He reminds me of someone I know. :-)

The one I saw just laid around doing nothing. He probably was more active at night since he is nocturnal.

• Central American River Turtle:

http://library.thinkquest.org/J0112124/central_american_river_turtle.htm

• ^{Aquatic Creatures:  http://mbgnet.mobot.org/fresh/animals/turtle.htm}

• ^{River Turtle:  http://members.tripod.com/eaplaceworthsaving/ESCAmerica_RTurtle.html}