The African sideneck turtle, or mud turtle, is a playful and unique freshwater reptile. These curious turtles have large eyes and what appears to be a broad smile that many keepers find amusing.

Conservation of sea turtles along much of Africa's east coast has made good progress in recent decades – but tens of thousands of turtles still die each year due to human activity, researchers say.

Conservation of sea turtles along much of Africa's east coast has made good progress in recent decades -- but tens of thousands of turtles still die each year due to human activity, researchers say.