Like all turtles, Emydids reproduce sexually. Reproduction occurs seasonally, usually spring and summer, with males and females engaging in courtship followed by mating. Courtship is a prolonged affair, lasting as long as several hours. Emydid males often develop special features to engage with females. In some cooters, male toenails on the front feet grow extra long like curved toothpicks. The male uses them to stroke the female's head or just vibrates them alongside to titillate her. If she is receptive, she may stroke his legs. Once he is mounted in a mating position, he rakes the super-nails across her upper shell (carapace). During the breeding season, some Emydid males develop bright coloration on their necks, front limbs, or head. Whether these colors are used to display dominance to other males or to attract females is not known. Regardless, a male in breeding coloration is a showy sight.