The rough-necked turtle spends most of its time hiding in the mud at the bottom of the water, feeding on small fish, shrimp and aquatic animals. It is also a scavenger.

Rough-necked turtles generally feed in the water, but they also come ashore to graze at night. Turtles are generally nocturnal animals, but the rough-necked turtle is maverick, active during the day, and sleepy in dim places.