MegaloMataMata

Ever wondered how a live animal is shipped across the United States?
Well, its quite simple, but nonetheless interesting.  Opening a small
cardboard box to extract the fragile living treasure inside is something
that I will not forget.  At 9:30am my long awaited box arrived via UPS Next
Day Air.  Total travel time about 18 hours.

Linda called me at work and I promptly left and raced home.  Carefully I cut the tape on the box and opened
it to reveal a thin square of tight styrofoam.



Underneath that, some newspaper and 4 more pieces of foam insulation.



Cheap tupperware.


Removed tupperware and broke scotch tape seal to reveal...



A little turtle (not pictured) resting silently packed in with some moist moss.


I wish I had Linda take photos while I unboxed the turtle, but I was too anxious and worried to prolong the little
Mata Matas already horrendous journey.  I promptly removed the little thing and gently eased him into the tank.

Here he/she is a few hours later.  The turtle seems to be 100% healthy and active.  It already ate 7 feeder
guppies. w00t!


The Mata Mata Turtle (Chelus fimbriatus) is absolutely amazing to look at.  It is an animal of a most
surreal appearance.  I have always wanted one, but the cost and rather advanced husbandry requirements
always kept me dreaming.  Now it is a reality and I hope to do my best to ensure this specimen has a long and
healthy captive life.  We were thinking of naming it Britney Spears....and although this is a fitting name, I feel
it is slightly insulting to the turtle.





Here is a photo of the underside of the turtle's neck.  The peach-pinkish color will fade with maturity.  These
bright colors are typically characteristic of hatchlings and juveniles.  Mine is only about 4.25 inches. Perfect.


The shape of the Mata Mata's mouth appears to create a permanant smile....cute.


One final photo....extremely difficult to take through aquarium glass.