The West African Sideneck Turtle (Pelusios castaneus) is a fascinating species known for its distinctive method of retracting its head. Unlike most turtles that pull their heads straight back into their shells, the West African Sideneck Turtle tucks its head sideways beneath the rim of its shell. This behavior is a defense mechanism that sets them apart from other species. The species exhibits a dark brown to black carapace, which often has a smooth texture. Their plastron, or lower shell, tends to be lighter in color, typically yellowish with dark blotches. These turtles are semi-aquatic, spending much of their time in freshwater environments such as rivers, lakes, and swamps, but they also venture onto land to bask in the sun, which helps regulate their body temperature and maintain shell health.

In the wild, West African Sideneck Turtles are omnivorous, feeding on a diverse diet that includes aquatic vegetation, insects, small fish, crustaceans, and carrion. Their adaptability to a wide range of food sources has allowed them to thrive in various habitats across West and Central Africa. These turtles are also known for their resilience; they can survive in water bodies that experience significant fluctuations in water levels or even dry up seasonally. When conditions become too harsh, such as during droughts, they are capable of aestivating—entering a state of dormancy in which they burrow into mud to conserve energy and survive until favorable conditions return. This adaptability makes them highly suited to the varied and sometimes challenging environments they inhabit.