musk turtle

American  

noun

1. any of several aquatic turtles of the genus Sternotherus, of North America, which, when disturbed, emit a musky secretion.

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musk turtle British  

noun

1. any of several small turtles of the genus Sternotherus, esp S. odoratus ( common musk turtle or stinkpot ), that emit a strong unpleasant odour: family Kinosternidae

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Etymology

Origin of musk turtle

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70; so called from its musky smell

Example Sentences

These eastern musk turtles, known for spending much of their lives in swamps and ponds and emitting a foul smell when threatened, were confiscated recently in a wildlife bust.

From Seattle Times

Scientists captured 50 male turtles in ponds in southeastern Oklahoma belonging to four species: western chicken turtles, Mississippi mud turtles, common musk turtles, and spiny softshell turtles.

From The Verge

There, people can apply for a license to trap any of the state’s 19 freshwater species, except for the more vulnerable alligator snapping turtles, box turtles, and razor-backed musk turtles.

From National Geographic

The common musk turtle has a tiny tongue lined with specialised buds, scientists have discovered.

From BBC

The tiny musk turtles were spotted for sale online by a Rhode Island Environmental Police intern.

From Seattle Times