The mud tortoise is smaller than the box, being scarcely four inches in
length. It can, however, move with considerable speed, and is seen
floundering about in the ponds and muddy places, where it searches for
aquatic insects, and sometimes even fish, on which it lives. It also
vexes the angler by taking hold of his hook, and remaining so quietly
sucking in the bait, that only when he hauls it up, and the tortoise
begins to pull and kick violently about, does he discover his mistake.
It is remarkable for exuding a strong musky odour, from which
circumstance it has obtained the name of "stink-pot."