Size: Small, Carapace length averaging about 13 cm in adults.

Appearance: Carapace smooth, olive to black in color, high domed and usually covered with algae; plastron hinged; large head with two yellow stripes on each side and barbles on the chin and throat; males tail ends in a horny nail.

Range: New England and South Canada to South Florida, West to Wisconsin and Texas.

Habitat: Shallow water, creeks and rivers, ponds, swamps, lakes; seldom seen on land; not tolerant to brackish waters.

Habits: Bad-tempered, releases a musty odor when captured; hibernation varies by location, in Pennsylvania from October to April; can climb trees up to around 2 meters and hang there; eat almost anything; diurnal.