Habitat: Monongahela River

Diet: carnivorous

Society: solitary

Lifespan: up to 60 years

During the day, Oguas lay in their dens to rest until dusk. As the sun falls below the horizon, the turtle hunts, pulling animals under the water or striking prey with powerful, whip-like tails. They feast on the riverbanks or riverbeds until dawn. Before winter arrives, Oguas expand their dens, digging tight tunnels and filling them with debris and spare food; during winter, the creature goes into brumation — ceasing to defecate or digest, slowing respiration, and allowing their body temperature to drop. The burrow keeps the turtle safe and insulated until the spring.

Reproduction: parthenogenesis or sexual reproduction

Daily Life and Socialization  

Meetings between Oguas are few and far between; if an Ogua’s territory is encroached upon by another Ogua, the creatures size each other up－the smaller of the two acquiescing and going around the turtle’s claim. Regardless of the circumstances of their meeting, when two Oguas do cross paths, mating occurs. Unlike other animal species, no mating rituals…