What pattern is characteristically found on the Wood Turtle plastron, the lower shell?
Answer
Dark, oblong blotches situated toward the outer edge or rear corner of each scute
The plastron, or lower shell, of the Wood Turtle provides a lighter base color, typically yellow or sometimes cream-colored. This lighter background is overlaid with specific markings that are unique to each individual. These markings consist of dark, oblong blotches. These blotches are strategically positioned towards the outer edge or the rear corner section of each individual scute that makes up the plastron. This specific patterning acts as a unique identifier, similar in concept to a fingerprint, for each turtle.
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