Scientists recently discovered a new type of extinct turtle in Madagascar. Madagascar is an island country of Africa.

This turtle lived about 100 million years ago, during the Late Cretaceous Period. It has been named Sahonachelys mailakavava. It means “quick-mouthed frog turtle” in Malagasy. This language is spoken by the native people of Madagascar.

Scientists say that this extinct turtle had a flattened skull and rounded mouth. This made it look like a frog. Its way of eating was very unique. It ate by sucking in mouthfuls of water, containing its food (tadpoles and tiny fish).

The turtle’s fossil was actually found in 2015 but has been named only now. The fossil is in very good condition.

This ancient turtle belongs to a family that includes turtles that are alive even today – like the South American and Madagascan river turtles.

There are many unique animals in the world that look and behave interestingly and differently. Have you heard about water bears or tardigrades? How about a platypus or wombat or living fossils? And also let’s not forget about unique extinct animals too. There are many unique, strange and rare animals both alive and extinct that are also fascinating and amazing. Read more about such captivating creatures in our animal news for kids.

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