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Pretty much what it sounds like. One of my turtles occasionally cranes its neck around and tries to nip its own front leg (usually the right one). Hasn't drawn blood or broken the skin yet, but it worries me a little. Does anyone have a possible explanation for this? It seems to be happening more frequently the last week or so. Maybe the turtle has an itch? Maybe it's bored?

Also, how early does the size difference between males and females start to become apparent? I've noticed that the foot-biting turtle is now about 1/8" longer than the other, and proportionally larger all around (bigger head, feet, etc.). I think they're about the same age. Does this mean I have a male and female?

My turtle likes to bite her front arms a lot when she's shedding or if something irritates her skin.

Also, the gender difference is more noticeable when their shell is about 4 inches long.

You should post photos of your turtles so maybe the folks on this board can give their guess on the gender of your turtles.

I think my RES does it when he's itchy.

Post a photo of your turtle and we can probably help confirm the gender

Also, turtles usually nip at their legs when they are shedding. Shedding tends to be itchy for them, so, you'll see them rub the sides or rump part of their shell against rocks or anything with a rough texture. This helps loosen their skin or scutes, and, honestly, it is probably a huge relief for them!

I found that my turtle does this too when she is gravid. I think maybe she hurts on the side she nips at her foot.
When she is gravid, she is very sensitive to being touched.

My baby snapper has been doing this , though he bites his left arm.