This diamondback terrapin hatchling from the Barnstable department of natural resources has two heads, a condition called bicephaly. This rare anomaly can arise from the influence of both genetic and environmental factors in the terrapin's embryonic development.
Animals who have this condition rarely survive. If they do, they don't have a good quality of life. However, these hatchlings are different. After being assessed in the hospital for over two weeks, the turtles were growing well.
They have shared body parts and independent body parts similar to conjoined twins in humans. X-rays revealed two spines that fused while the Barium study revealed separate gastrointestinal tracts.
This terrapin has six legs, but each of them has control on three legs. When placed on a deepwater swim test, they can coordinate and swim together.
This twin turtle proved that teamwork is essential for survival.
Image: Cape Wildlife Center via Facebook
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