It is found in Mexico (from Sonora southwards) and Central America, as far south as Costa Rica and Panama.

Painted wood turtles live in rainforests, shallow rivers and bushes.

The painted wood turtle feeds on fruit, insects, and worms.

Along with a varied diet, they require additional calcium to insure healthy shell growth.

Painted wood turtles can be kept as pets, and it has long been imported into the various parts of Asia, such as Japan, Taiwan and China.