How does the wood turtle's skin coloration aid in identifying it near the water?
Answer
The skin underneath the legs and neck is bright yellow or orange
Beyond the appearance of the shell, the coloration of the soft tissue provides another reliable marker for identification. The skin covering the legs and neck area, visible when the turtle stretches, possesses a striking and bright coloration, typically being yellow or orange. This vibrant hue contrasts sharply with the darker tones of the head and body, making it a telling feature for observers differentiating the wood turtle from its aquatic relatives.
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