This is a database of all native turtles in USA according to the states. The list is not complete yet. I’ll continue to add more turtle species as I find them.
Native Turtles In Alabama
Alabama Red-bellied Turtle (Pseudemys alabamensis)
This turtle species is known for its distinctive red belly and is primarily found in Alabama, particularly in the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta. They are semi-aquatic and can grow up to about 12 inches in length.
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle famous for its hinged shell, allowing it to completely close its shell for protection. It has a variable shell pattern with vivid colors, typically growing to around 4-6 inches in length. They are found in the eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum)
A small, dull-colored turtle, usually not exceeding 5 inches in length, found in the eastern United States. They live in muddy or marshy waters and have a relatively unremarkable brown or black shell.
Barbour’s Map Turtle (Graptemys barbouri)
This species is known for its intricate shell markings, resembling a topographic map. Found primarily in river systems in the southeastern United States, they are medium-sized turtles with females being larger than males.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. It inhabits wetlands and marshy areas in the eastern United States and Canada. They typically grow to about 4-5 inches in length.
Yellow-bellied Slider (Trachemys scripta scripta)
A freshwater turtle with a distinctive yellow belly, found in the southeastern United States. They are closely related to the red-eared slider and can grow to around 8-12 inches.
Alabama Map Turtle (Graptemys pulchra)
Similar to Barbour’s map turtle, this species has intricate shell patterns and prefers river habitats. Endemic to Alabama, they are medium-sized, with females generally larger than males.
Gulf Coast Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera aspera)
A subspecies of the spiny softshell turtle, it has a leathery shell and a snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers, lakes, and ponds along the Gulf Coast, they can grow quite large, with females being significantly larger than males.
Native Turtles In Alaska
Alaska, due to its cold climate and northern latitude, is not a natural habitat for turtles. As a result, there are no native turtle species in Alaska. Turtles are generally found in warmer environments, and Alaska’s harsh, cold conditions are not suitable for these reptiles.
Native Turtles In Arizona
Sonoran Mud Turtle (Kinosternon sonoriense)
Found primarily in the Sonoran Desert region of the United States and Mexico, this turtle prefers freshwater habitats like ponds, streams, and rivers. They are medium-sized, generally growing up to 8 inches in length, with olive to dark brown shells. They are known for their adaptability to arid environments.
Western Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta bellii)
This subspecies of the painted turtle is noted for its bright, colorful markings, with red and yellow stripes on its limbs and a dark shell with red and yellow patterns. They inhabit freshwater environments across the western United States and are medium-sized, usually growing up to 10 inches in length.
Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii)
Native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, this land-dwelling tortoise is adapted to a life in arid conditions. They have high-domed shells and can grow to about 10-14 inches in length. They spend much of their time in burrows to escape extreme temperatures.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
This species is found in the central United States and is known for the ornate, star-like patterns on its shell. They are relatively small, usually reaching around 4-5 inches in length, and prefer prairie habitats.
Native Turtles In Arkansas
Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)
One of the largest freshwater turtles in the world, found primarily in southeastern United States. Known for its massive size (up to 26 inches shell length), strong jaws, and distinct ridges on its shell, resembling an alligator’s back.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a high-domed shell that can completely enclose its body. Found in the eastern United States, it has a variable shell pattern with colors ranging from brown to orange.
Gulf Coast Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina major)
A subspecies of the common box turtle, larger in size, found along the Gulf Coast. It has a dark shell with radiating yellow patterns.
Three-toed Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina triunguis)
Another subspecies of the common box turtle, distinguished by typically having three toes on the hind feet. It’s found in the central United States, with a shell color ranging from brown to olive with yellow markings.
Western Chicken Turtle (Deirochelys reticularia miaria)
A semi-aquatic turtle known for its long, striped neck and a net-like pattern on its shell. Found in the southeastern United States, particularly in slow-moving waters.
Eastern River Cooter (Pseudemys concinna concinna)
A large, freshwater turtle with a dark shell marked with light yellow lines. Common in rivers and streams in the southeastern United States, it is known for basking in the sun and is an adept swimmer.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Found in freshwater habitats across eastern North America, this turtle is recognized by the map-like markings on its olive or brown shell. They are medium-sized and are particularly known for their keen eyesight.
Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys ouachitensis)
Native to the Ouachita River system in the United States, this species has a distinct pattern on its shell resembling contour lines on a map. They prefer large rivers with swift currents.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
Razorback Musk Turtle (Sternotherus carinatus)
A small, aquatic turtle known for the high, sharp-edged ridge down the center of its shell. Found in the southeastern United States, they inhabit slow-moving waters.
Stinkpot or Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
A small, primarily aquatic turtle with a dark, unpatterned shell. Found throughout eastern North America, it releases a musky odor when threatened, hence the name “stinkpot.”
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
River Cooter (Pseudemys concinna)
A large, freshwater turtle with an oval, patterned shell, found in rivers and streams in the southeastern United States. They are strong swimmers and are often seen basking on logs or rocks.
Native Turtles In California
Western Pond Turtle (Actinemys marmorata)
This species, also known as the Pacific Pond Turtle, is found along the western coast of the United States, from Washington state to Baja California. They are medium-sized, typically growing up to 8 inches in shell length. Their shell is usually dark brown or olive, often with a marbled pattern. Western Pond Turtles inhabit a variety of water bodies, including ponds, streams, and rivers, and are known for their basking behavior.
Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii)
Native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, this land-dwelling tortoise is adapted to a life in arid conditions. They have high-domed shells and can grow to about 10-14 inches in length. They spend much of their time in burrows to escape extreme temperatures.
Southwestern Pond Turtle (Actinemys pallida)
This species, recently recognized as distinct from the Western Pond Turtle, is found in southwestern California and Baja California, Mexico. They are similar in appearance to the Western Pond Turtle but have a lighter, more grayish shell color. Southwestern Pond Turtles are semi-aquatic and inhabit various freshwater environments such as ponds, streams, and rivers. They are also known for basking on logs or rocks near water.
Additionally, there are various sea turtles that can be found off the coast of California, though they are not typically resident species. These include:
Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta)
This species is widely distributed throughout the oceanic world, particularly in subtropical and temperate regions. Loggerhead turtles are known for their large heads and strong jaws. They typically have a reddish-brown shell and can grow quite large, often exceeding 3 feet in shell length. They primarily feed on invertebrates like crabs, mollusks, and jellyfish.
Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
The largest of all living turtles, leatherbacks are unique for their lack of a hard shell. Instead, their carapace is covered in leathery skin with embedded bony plates. They can grow up to 6-7 feet in length and are highly migratory, found in all oceans from the Arctic to the Antarctic. Leatherbacks primarily feed on jellyfish and are known for their ability to dive to great depths.
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Named for the greenish color of their cartilage and fat, green sea turtles are found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. They have a smooth, heart-shaped shell and are primarily herbivorous, feeding on sea grasses and algae. Adults can grow to about 3-4 feet in shell length. Green sea turtles are known for their long migrations between feeding grounds and the beaches where they nest.
Olive Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)
The smallest of the sea turtles, the Olive Ridley is named for its olive-colored shell. They are widely distributed in the warm waters of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans. These turtles are known for their unique mass nesting called “arribada,” where thousands of females come ashore to lay eggs. They typically grow to about 2 feet in shell length and feed on a variety of marine organisms, including jellyfish, snails, and algae.
Native Turtles In Colorado
Western Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta bellii)
This is a subspecies of the painted turtle, widely distributed across the western United States. It is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes and patterns on its skin and shell. The Western Painted Turtle inhabits freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. They are medium-sized, usually growing up to about 10 inches in shell length.
Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
This species is found in the central United States, particularly in grassland habitats. The Ornate Box Turtle is known for the beautiful, star-like patterns on its high-domed shell. They are relatively small, with adults typically reaching around 4-5 inches in length. This terrestrial turtle is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plants and small animals.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Native Turtles In Connecticut
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a highly domed shell that can close completely. It’s found in the eastern United States and is known for its varied shell patterns, often with a mix of orange, brown, and yellow.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Northern Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin terrapin)
A subspecies of the Diamondback Terrapin, found in brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. They have unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often have a gray to white skin with dark spots.
Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum)
A small, dull-colored turtle usually found in muddy or marshy environments of the eastern United States. They have a relatively unremarkable brown or black shell and are highly aquatic.
Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the Stinkpot, this small aquatic turtle is found in the eastern United States. It has a dark, unpatterned shell and releases a musky odor when threatened.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Native Turtles In Delaware
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A terrestrial turtle with a distinctive, highly domed shell that can close completely. Found in the eastern United States, it has varied shell patterns, often with a mix of orange, brown, and yellow.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
Known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. Found in freshwater environments across North America.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata):
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. Inhabits wetlands and marshy areas in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
Inhabits brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. Known for its unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often gray to white skin with dark spots.
Red-bellied Turtle (Pseudemys rubriventris)
A freshwater turtle with a distinctive red or orange plastron (belly shell). Found in ponds, rivers, and marshes in the eastern United States.
Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum)
A small, dull-colored turtle, usually found in muddy or marshy environments in the eastern United States. It has a brown or black shell and is highly aquatic.
Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the Stinkpot, this small, aquatic turtle is found in the eastern United States. It has a dark, unpatterned shell and emits a musky odor when threatened.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
Recognizable by its bright yellow chin and throat, this turtle has a domed but slightly flattened carapace with black and yellow speckles. Found in wetlands in the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle is found in forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized and omnivorous.
Native Turtles In Florida
Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta)
Large marine turtle known for its large head, found in oceans worldwide. Feeds primarily on invertebrates.
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Named for its green fat, this turtle is found in warm coastal waters around the world. It’s primarily herbivorous.
Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
The largest sea turtle species, distinguished by its leathery shell. Found globally, it feeds primarily on jellyfish.
Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
Recognizable by its pointed beak and beautiful shell, found in tropical oceans. Known for eating sponges.
Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)
The smallest sea turtle, known for its unique mass nesting behavior called arribada. Found mainly in the Gulf of Mexico.
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a high-domed shell that can completely enclose its body. Found in the eastern United States, it has a variable shell pattern with colors ranging from brown to orange.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus)
A terrestrial turtle found in the southeastern United States, known for digging extensive burrows.
Striped Mud Turtle (Kinosternon baurii)
A small turtle with three stripes on its shell, found in the southeastern U.S. Lives in slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Loggerhead Musk Turtle (Sternotherus minor)
A small aquatic turtle with a large head, similar to the loggerhead sea turtle. Found in the southeastern United States.
Florida Softshell Turtle (Apalone ferox)
A freshwater turtle with a flat, soft shell, found primarily in Florida. It’s carnivorous, feeding on fish, insects, and amphibians.
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
Lives in brackish waters along the eastern U.S. coast. Known for its diamond-shaped shell patterns.
Peninsula Cooter (Pseudemys peninsularis)
A large freshwater turtle found in Florida, noted for its striking shell patterns.
Florida Red-bellied Cooter (Pseudemys nelsoni)
A freshwater turtle with a distinctive red belly, native to Florida.
Suwannee Cooter (Pseudemys concinna suwanniensis)
Found in the Suwannee River, Florida. Similar to other cooters but adapted to the tannic waters of the river.
Chicken Turtle (Deirochelys reticularia)
Named for its long, striped neck. Found in the southeastern United States, in ponds and marshes.
Florida Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina bauri)
A subspecies of the Eastern Box Turtle, found in Florida. Has a high-domed shell with colorful patterns.
Yellow-bellied Slider (Trachemys scripta scripta)
A freshwater turtle with a yellow belly, found in the southeastern United States. Similar to the red-eared slider.
Native Turtles In Georgia
Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta)
Large marine turtle known for its large head, found in oceans worldwide. Feeds primarily on invertebrates.
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Distinguished by its large, smooth, greenish shell, this sea turtle is mainly herbivorous, feeding on seagrasses and algae. It’s found in warm seas worldwide.
Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
The largest of all sea turtles, the leatherback has a distinctive leathery shell instead of a hard one. It’s known for its deep diving and long migrations, feeding mostly on jellyfish.
Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
This smaller sea turtle has a beautifully patterned shell that resembles a hawk’s beak. It typically inhabits coral reefs where it feeds on sponges and invertebrates.
Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)
The smallest sea turtle, this species is known for its unique mass nesting called “arribada.” It has a grayish-green shell and primarily feeds on crabs.
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its aggressive behavior when out of water, this large freshwater turtle has a powerful jaw and a rugged shell, found in a variety of water bodies.
Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus)
A terrestrial turtle notable for its burrowing behavior, it has a brown, domed shell and is found in the southeastern United States, primarily in sandy habitats.
Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum)
A small, dull-colored turtle, it lives in freshwater environments like ponds and marshes, and is known for its ability to burrow in the mud.
Striped Mud Turtle (Kinosternon baurii)
Similar to the Eastern Mud Turtle, this small species has three distinct stripes on its shell and inhabits freshwater environments in the southeastern U.S.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
This turtle lives in brackish waters along the eastern and southern coasts of the U.S. It has a uniquely patterned shell and webbed feet.
Barbour’s Map Turtle (Graptemys barbouri)
A freshwater turtle with a distinct map-like pattern on its shell, found in river systems in the southeastern United States.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Similar to Barbour’s, this species has map-like markings on its shell and inhabits rivers and large lakes in North America.
River Cooter (Pseudemys concinna)
A large, freshwater turtle with a dark shell and yellow markings, it’s found in rivers and lakes, primarily in the southeastern U.S.
Florida Red-bellied Turtle (Pseudemys nelsoni)
Recognized by its red-orange plastron (bottom shell), this freshwater turtle inhabits the ponds, swamps, and rivers of Florida.
Yellow-bellied Slider (Trachemys scripta scripta)
A freshwater turtle with a yellow belly and a dark shell with yellow stripes. It’s common in the southeastern U.S., in rivers, swamps, and ponds.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
This small, semi-aquatic turtle has a dark shell with yellow spots. It inhabits wetlands and slow-moving waters in the eastern U.S.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
Known for its bright yellow throat, this medium-sized, semi-aquatic turtle has a domed shell and inhabits wetlands in the northern U.S. and Canada.
Chicken Turtle (Deirochelys reticularia)
A freshwater turtle with a long, striped neck and a reticulated shell pattern. It’s found in slow-moving waters in the southeastern United States.
Native Turtles In Hawaii
Hawaii, an archipelago with a unique ecosystem, does not have native terrestrial turtle species due to its isolated location in the Pacific Ocean. However, the waters around Hawaii are home to several species of sea turtles. Here are the native sea turtles found in Hawaiian waters:
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Distinguished by its large, smooth, greenish shell, this sea turtle is mainly herbivorous, feeding on seagrasses and algae. It’s found in warm seas worldwide.
Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
This smaller sea turtle has a beautifully patterned shell that resembles a hawk’s beak. It typically inhabits coral reefs where it feeds on sponges and invertebrates.
Native Turtles In Idaho
Western Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta bellii)
This subspecies of the painted turtle is noted for its bright, colorful markings, with red and yellow stripes on its limbs and a dark shell with red and yellow patterns. They inhabit freshwater environments across the western United States and are medium-sized, usually growing up to 10 inches in length.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Western Pond Turtle (Actinemys marmorata)
This species, also known as the Pacific Pond Turtle, is found along the western coast of the United States, from Washington state to Baja California. They are medium-sized, typically growing up to 8 inches in shell length. Their shell is usually dark brown or olive, often with a marbled pattern. Western Pond Turtles inhabit a variety of water bodies, including ponds, streams, and rivers, and are known for their basking behavior.
Native Turtles In Illinois
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
This species is found in the central United States and is known for the ornate, star-like patterns on its shell. They are relatively small, usually reaching around 4-5 inches in length, and prefer prairie habitats.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Found in freshwater habitats across eastern North America, this turtle is recognized by the map-like markings on its olive or brown shell. They are medium-sized and are particularly known for their keen eyesight.
Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys ouachitensis)
Native to the Ouachita River system in the United States, this species has a distinct pattern on its shell resembling contour lines on a map. They prefer large rivers with swift currents.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
River Cooter (Pseudemys concinna)
A large, freshwater turtle with an oval, patterned shell, found in rivers and streams in the southeastern United States. They are strong swimmers and are often seen basking on logs or rocks.
Native Turtles In Indiana
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Found in freshwater habitats across eastern North America, this turtle is recognized by the map-like markings on its olive or brown shell. They are medium-sized and are particularly known for their keen eyesight.
Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys ouachitensis)
Native to the Ouachita River system in the United States, this species has a distinct pattern on its shell resembling contour lines on a map. They prefer large rivers with swift currents.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Native Turtles In Iowa
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
This species is found in the central United States and is known for the ornate, star-like patterns on its shell. They are relatively small, usually reaching around 4-5 inches in length, and prefer prairie habitats.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys ouachitensis)
Native to the Ouachita River system in the United States, this species has a distinct pattern on its shell resembling contour lines on a map. They prefer large rivers with swift currents.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Native Turtles In Kansas
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
This species is found in the central United States and is known for the ornate, star-like patterns on its shell. They are relatively small, usually reaching around 4-5 inches in length, and prefer prairie habitats.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys kohnii)
The Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys kohnii), also known as the Sawback Turtle, is a medium-sized turtle native to the United States, particularly found in rivers and streams of the Mississippi River system.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Native Turtles In Kentucky
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Found in freshwater habitats across eastern North America, this turtle is recognized by the map-like markings on its olive or brown shell. They are medium-sized and are particularly known for their keen eyesight.
Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys ouachitensis)
Native to the Ouachita River system in the United States, this species has a distinct pattern on its shell resembling contour lines on a map. They prefer large rivers with swift currents.
Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys kohnii)
The Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys kohnii), also known as the Sawback Turtle, is a medium-sized turtle native to the United States, particularly found in rivers and streams of the Mississippi River system.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
River Cooter (Pseudemys concinna)
A large, freshwater turtle with an oval, patterned shell, found in rivers and streams in the southeastern United States. They are strong swimmers and are often seen basking on logs or rocks.
Native Turtles In Louisiana
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Gulf Coast Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina major)
A subspecies of the common box turtle, larger in size, found along the Gulf Coast. It has a dark shell with radiating yellow patterns.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)
One of the largest freshwater turtles in the world, found primarily in southeastern United States. Known for its massive size (up to 26 inches shell length), strong jaws, and distinct ridges on its shell, resembling an alligator’s back.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys kohnii)
The Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys kohnii), also known as the Sawback Turtle, is a medium-sized turtle native to the United States, particularly found in rivers and streams of the Mississippi River system.
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
Inhabits brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. Known for its unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often gray to white skin with dark spots.
Loggerhead Musk Turtle (Sternotherus minor)
A small aquatic turtle with a large head, similar to the loggerhead sea turtle. Found in the southeastern United States.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Native Turtles In Maine
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Northern Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin terrapin)
A subspecies of the Diamondback Terrapin, found in brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. They have unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often have a gray to white skin with dark spots.
Native Turtles In Maryland
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
Inhabits brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. Known for its unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often gray to white skin with dark spots.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum)
A small, dull-colored turtle usually found in muddy or marshy environments of the eastern United States. They have a relatively unremarkable brown or black shell and are highly aquatic.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Similar to Barbour’s, this species has map-like markings on its shell and inhabits rivers and large lakes in North America.
Northern Red-bellied Cooter (Pseudemys rubriventris)
The Northern Red-bellied Cooter (Pseudemys rubriventris) is a freshwater turtle known for its distinctive red or orange plastron.
This species is native to the northeastern United States, particularly in the area of the Plymouth, Massachusetts, Pine Barrens, and select river systems.
Due to its limited range and specific habitat requirements, it has been the subject of conservation efforts, including legal protection and habitat management.
Native Turtles In Massachusetts
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Northern Red-bellied Cooter (Pseudemys rubriventris)
The Northern Red-bellied Cooter (Pseudemys rubriventris) is a freshwater turtle known for its distinctive red or orange plastron.
This species is native to the northeastern United States, particularly in the area of the Plymouth, Massachusetts, Pine Barrens, and select river systems.
Due to its limited range and specific habitat requirements, it has been the subject of conservation efforts, including legal protection and habitat management.
Northern Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin terrapin)
A subspecies of the Diamondback Terrapin, found in brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. They have unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often have a gray to white skin with dark spots.
Native Turtles In Michigan
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Similar to Barbour’s, this species has map-like markings on its shell and inhabits rivers and large lakes in North America.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Native Turtles In Minnesota
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Similar to Barbour’s, this species has map-like markings on its shell and inhabits rivers and large lakes in North America.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
Native Turtles In Mississippi
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)
One of the largest freshwater turtles in the world, found primarily in southeastern United States. Known for its massive size (up to 26 inches shell length), strong jaws, and distinct ridges on its shell, resembling an alligator’s back.
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Gulf Coast Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina major)
A subspecies of the common box turtle, larger in size, found along the Gulf Coast. It has a dark shell with radiating yellow patterns.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys kohnii)
The Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys kohnii), also known as the Sawback Turtle, is a medium-sized turtle native to the United States, particularly found in rivers and streams of the Mississippi River system.
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
Inhabits brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. Known for its unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often gray to white skin with dark spots.
Loggerhead Musk Turtle (Sternotherus minor)
A small aquatic turtle with a large head, similar to the loggerhead sea turtle. Found in the southeastern United States.
Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum)
A small, dull-colored turtle usually found in muddy or marshy environments of the eastern United States. They have a relatively unremarkable brown or black shell and are highly aquatic.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Pascagoula Map Turtle (Graptemys gibbonsi)
The Pascagoula Map Turtle (Graptemys gibbonsi), also known as the Pearl River Map Turtle, is a species of turtle endemic to the United States, specifically to the river systems of the Pascagoula and Pearl Rivers in Mississippi and Louisiana.
Yellow-blotched Map Turtle (Graptemys flavimaculata)
The Yellow-blotched Map Turtle (Graptemys flavimaculata), also known as the Yellow-blotched Sawback, is a rare and endangered species of turtle endemic to the United States. It is specifically found in the Pascagoula River system in Mississippi, which includes the Leaf and Chickasawhay rivers.
Native Turtles In Missouri
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)
One of the largest freshwater turtles in the world, found primarily in southeastern United States. Known for its massive size (up to 26 inches shell length), strong jaws, and distinct ridges on its shell, resembling an alligator’s back.
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Three-toed Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina triunguis)
Another subspecies of the common box turtle, distinguished by typically having three toes on the hind feet. It’s found in the central United States, with a shell color ranging from brown to olive with yellow markings.
Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
This species is found in the central United States and is known for the ornate, star-like patterns on its shell. They are relatively small, usually reaching around 4-5 inches in length, and prefer prairie habitats.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys kohnii)
The Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys kohnii), also known as the Sawback Turtle, is a medium-sized turtle native to the United States, particularly found in rivers and streams of the Mississippi River system.
Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys ouachitensis)
Native to the Ouachita River system in the United States, this species has a distinct pattern on its shell resembling contour lines on a map. They prefer large rivers with swift currents.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Native Turtles In Montana
Western Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta bellii)
This subspecies of the painted turtle is noted for its bright, colorful markings, with red and yellow stripes on its limbs and a dark shell with red and yellow patterns. They inhabit freshwater environments across the western United States and are medium-sized, usually growing up to 10 inches in length.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Native Turtles In Nebraska
Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
This species is found in the central United States and is known for the ornate, star-like patterns on its shell. They are relatively small, usually reaching around 4-5 inches in length, and prefer prairie habitats.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
Stinkpot or Eastern Musk Turtle Or Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
A small, primarily aquatic turtle with a dark, unpatterned shell. Found throughout eastern North America, it releases a musky odor when threatened, hence the name “stinkpot.”
Native Turtles In Nevada
Western Pond Turtle (Actinemys marmorata)
This species, also known as the Pacific Pond Turtle, is found along the western coast of the United States, from Washington state to Baja California. They are medium-sized, typically growing up to 8 inches in shell length. Their shell is usually dark brown or olive, often with a marbled pattern. Western Pond Turtles inhabit a variety of water bodies, including ponds, streams, and rivers, and are known for their basking behavior.
Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii)
The Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is a land-dwelling reptile native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. Recognized by its high-domed shell, which helps regulate its internal temperature, and sturdy limbs adapted for digging, the Desert Tortoise is an emblem of desert life. Its coloration ranges from tan to dark brown, providing camouflage against the desert landscape.
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Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Stinkpot or Eastern Musk Turtle Or Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
A small, primarily aquatic turtle with a dark, unpatterned shell. Found throughout eastern North America, it releases a musky odor when threatened, hence the name “stinkpot.”
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Northern Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin terrapin)
A subspecies of the Diamondback Terrapin, found in brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. They have unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often have a gray to white skin with dark spots.
Native Turtles In New Jersey
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Stinkpot or Eastern Musk Turtle Or Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
A small, primarily aquatic turtle with a dark, unpatterned shell. Found throughout eastern North America, it releases a musky odor when threatened, hence the name “stinkpot.”
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Northern Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin terrapin)
A subspecies of the Diamondback Terrapin, found in brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. They have unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often have a gray to white skin with dark spots.
Northern Red-bellied Cooter (Pseudemys rubriventris)
The Northern Red-bellied Cooter (Pseudemys rubriventris) is a freshwater turtle known for its distinctive red or orange plastron.
This species is native to the northeastern United States, particularly in the area of the Plymouth, Massachusetts, Pine Barrens, and select river systems.
Due to its limited range and specific habitat requirements, it has been the subject of conservation efforts, including legal protection and habitat management.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum)
A small, dull-colored turtle usually found in muddy or marshy environments of the eastern United States. They have a relatively unremarkable brown or black shell and are highly aquatic.
Bog Turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii)
The Bog Turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) is one of North America’s smallest and most critically endangered turtles, reaching only about 3.5 to 4.5 inches in shell length at adulthood. Characterized by its distinctive orange or yellow patches on either side of its head, the bog turtle has a dark brown or black carapace (upper shell) and a similarly colored plastron (underside), with some individuals showing lighter markings.
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Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Western River Cooter (Pseudemys gorzugi)
The Western River Cooter is a freshwater turtle native to the river systems of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Characterized by a relatively large, oval shell that can exhibit a variety of patterns but often includes intricate markings with a greenish to brown base color.
Western Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
The Western Box Turtle, also known as the Ornate Box Turtle, has a domed shell that features a stunning pattern of lines and blotches ranging from yellow to orange against a dark background. This terrestrial species is found in the grasslands and desert areas of the central and western United States. Unlike many turtles, the Western Box Turtle has the ability to completely close its shell, thanks to a hinged plastron. Its diet is omnivorous, including insects, vegetation, and carrion.
Yellow Mud Turtle (Kinosternon flavescens)
The Yellow Mud Turtle is a small, semi-aquatic turtle with a smooth, unmarked, olive to dark brown carapace and a distinctive yellowish plastron. It inhabits the slow-moving waters of ponds, marshes, and streams across the Great Plains and southwestern United States into Mexico. This species is adept at burrowing into the mud, where it can aestivate during dry periods. Its diet is carnivorous, feeding on invertebrates, fish, and amphibians.
Big Bend Slider (Trachemys gaigeae)
The Big Bend Slider is a freshwater turtle found primarily in the rivers and waterways of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, particularly in the area around the Big Bend of the Rio Grande. It has a greenish to brown carapace with yellow stripes and a yellow plastron with dark blotches. Similar in appearance and behavior to other slider turtles, the Big Bend Slider is an excellent swimmer and basker, often seen sunning on rocks or logs. Its diet is omnivorous, including aquatic plants, insects, and small fish.
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Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Similar to Barbour’s, this species has map-like markings on its shell and inhabits rivers and large lakes in North America.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Stinkpot or Eastern Musk Turtle Or Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
A small, primarily aquatic turtle with a dark, unpatterned shell. Found throughout eastern North America, it releases a musky odor when threatened, hence the name “stinkpot.”
Bog Turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii)
The Bog Turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) is one of North America’s smallest and most critically endangered turtles, reaching only about 3.5 to 4.5 inches in shell length at adulthood. Characterized by its distinctive orange or yellow patches on either side of its head, the bog turtle has a dark brown or black carapace (upper shell) and a similarly colored plastron (underside), with some individuals showing lighter markings.
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
Inhabits brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. Known for its unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often gray to white skin with dark spots.
Native Turtles In North Carolina
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
Inhabits brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. Known for its unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often gray to white skin with dark spots.
Stinkpot or Eastern Musk Turtle Or Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
A small, primarily aquatic turtle with a dark, unpatterned shell. Found throughout eastern North America, it releases a musky odor when threatened, hence the name “stinkpot.”
Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum)
A small, dull-colored turtle usually found in muddy or marshy environments of the eastern United States. They have a relatively unremarkable brown or black shell and are highly aquatic.
Striped Mud Turtle (Kinosternon baurii)
Similar to the Eastern Mud Turtle, this small species has three distinct stripes on its shell and inhabits freshwater environments in the southeastern U.S.
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Distinguished by its large, smooth, greenish shell, this sea turtle is mainly herbivorous, feeding on seagrasses and algae. It’s found in warm seas worldwide.
Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
This smaller sea turtle has a beautifully patterned shell that resembles a hawk’s beak. It typically inhabits coral reefs where it feeds on sponges and invertebrates.
Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta)
Large marine turtle known for its large head, found in oceans worldwide. Feeds primarily on invertebrates.
Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
The largest of all living turtles, leatherbacks are unique for their lack of a hard shell. Instead, their carapace is covered in leathery skin with embedded bony plates. They can grow up to 6-7 feet in length and are highly migratory, found in all oceans from the Arctic to the Antarctic. Leatherbacks primarily feed on jellyfish and are known for their ability to dive to great depths.
Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)
The smallest sea turtle, known for its unique mass nesting behavior called arribada. Found mainly in the Gulf of Mexico.
Yellow-bellied Slider (Trachemys scripta scripta)
A freshwater turtle with a distinctive yellow belly, found in the southeastern United States. They are closely related to the red-eared slider and can grow to around 8-12 inches.
River Cooter (Pseudemys concinna)
A large, freshwater turtle with a dark shell and yellow markings, it’s found in rivers and lakes, primarily in the southeastern U.S.
Native Turtles In North Dakota
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
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Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Found in freshwater habitats across eastern North America, this turtle is recognized by the map-like markings on its olive or brown shell. They are medium-sized and are particularly known for their keen eyesight.
Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys ouachitensis)
Native to the Ouachita River system in the United States, this species has a distinct pattern on its shell resembling contour lines on a map. They prefer large rivers with swift currents.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
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Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
This species is found in the central United States and is known for the ornate, star-like patterns on its shell. They are relatively small, usually reaching around 4-5 inches in length, and prefer prairie habitats.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys ouachitensis)
Native to the Ouachita River system in the United States, this species has a distinct pattern on its shell resembling contour lines on a map. They prefer large rivers with swift currents.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
River Cooter (Pseudemys concinna)
A large, freshwater turtle with an oval, patterned shell, found in rivers and streams in the southeastern United States. They are strong swimmers and are often seen basking on logs or rocks.
Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)
One of the largest freshwater turtles in the world, found primarily in southeastern United States. Known for its massive size (up to 26 inches shell length), strong jaws, and distinct ridges on its shell, resembling an alligator’s back.
Yellow Mud Turtle (Kinosternon flavescens)
The Yellow Mud Turtle is a small, semi-aquatic turtle with a smooth, unmarked, olive to dark brown carapace and a distinctive yellowish plastron. It inhabits the slow-moving waters of ponds, marshes, and streams across the Great Plains and southwestern United States into Mexico. This species is adept at burrowing into the mud, where it can aestivate during dry periods. Its diet is carnivorous, feeding on invertebrates, fish, and amphibians.
Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum)
A small, dull-colored turtle, usually not exceeding 5 inches in length, found in the eastern United States. They live in muddy or marshy waters and have a relatively unremarkable brown or black shell.
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Western Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta bellii)
This subspecies of the painted turtle is noted for its bright, colorful markings, with red and yellow stripes on its limbs and a dark shell with red and yellow patterns. They inhabit freshwater environments across the western United States and are medium-sized, usually growing up to 10 inches in length.
Western Pond Turtle (Actinemys marmorata)
This species, also known as the Pacific Pond Turtle, is found along the western coast of the United States, from Washington state to Baja California. They are medium-sized, typically growing up to 8 inches in shell length. Their shell is usually dark brown or olive, often with a marbled pattern. Western Pond Turtles inhabit a variety of water bodies, including ponds, streams, and rivers, and are known for their basking behavior.
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Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Similar to Barbour’s, this species has map-like markings on its shell and inhabits rivers and large lakes in North America.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Stinkpot or Eastern Musk Turtle Or Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
A small, primarily aquatic turtle with a dark, unpatterned shell. Found throughout eastern North America, it releases a musky odor when threatened, hence the name “stinkpot.”
Bog Turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii)
The Bog Turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) is one of North America’s smallest and most critically endangered turtles, reaching only about 3.5 to 4.5 inches in shell length at adulthood. Characterized by its distinctive orange or yellow patches on either side of its head, the bog turtle has a dark brown or black carapace (upper shell) and a similarly colored plastron (underside), with some individuals showing lighter markings.
Native Turtles In Rhode Island
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Stinkpot or Eastern Musk Turtle Or Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
A small, primarily aquatic turtle with a dark, unpatterned shell. Found throughout eastern North America, it releases a musky odor when threatened, hence the name “stinkpot.”
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
Inhabits brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. Known for its unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often gray to white skin with dark spots.
Native Turtles In South Carolina
Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta)
Large marine turtle known for its large head, found in oceans worldwide. Feeds primarily on invertebrates.
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Distinguished by its large, smooth, greenish shell, this sea turtle is mainly herbivorous, feeding on seagrasses and algae. It’s found in warm seas worldwide.
Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
The largest of all sea turtles, the leatherback has a distinctive leathery shell instead of a hard one. It’s known for its deep diving and long migrations, feeding mostly on jellyfish.
Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)
The smallest sea turtle, this species is known for its unique mass nesting called “arribada.” It has a grayish-green shell and primarily feeds on crabs.
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its aggressive behavior when out of water, this large freshwater turtle has a powerful jaw and a rugged shell, found in a variety of water bodies.
Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus)
A terrestrial turtle notable for its burrowing behavior, it has a brown, domed shell and is found in the southeastern United States, primarily in sandy habitats.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum)
A small, dull-colored turtle, it lives in freshwater environments like ponds and marshes, and is known for its ability to burrow in the mud.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
This turtle lives in brackish waters along the eastern and southern coasts of the U.S. It has a uniquely patterned shell and webbed feet.
Carolina Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin centrata)
The Carolina Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin centrata) is a brackish water turtle native to the coastal marshes of the southeastern United States. It features a unique diamond-shaped pattern on its shell and sports gray to white skin with dark spots. This species is omnivorous, feeding on marine invertebrates and plants.
Yellow-bellied Slider (Trachemys scripta scripta)
A freshwater turtle with a yellow belly and a dark shell with yellow stripes. It’s common in the southeastern U.S., in rivers, swamps, and ponds.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
This small, semi-aquatic turtle has a dark shell with yellow spots. It inhabits wetlands and slow-moving waters in the eastern U.S.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
Known for its bright yellow throat, this medium-sized, semi-aquatic turtle has a domed shell and inhabits wetlands in the northern U.S. and Canada.
Native Turtles In South Dakota
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
This species is found in the central United States and is known for the ornate, star-like patterns on its shell. They are relatively small, usually reaching around 4-5 inches in length, and prefer prairie habitats.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
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Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Three-toed Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina triunguis)
Another subspecies of the common box turtle, distinguished by typically having three toes on the hind feet. It’s found in the central United States, with a shell color ranging from brown to olive with yellow markings.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)
One of the largest freshwater turtles in the world, found primarily in southeastern United States. Known for its massive size (up to 26 inches shell length), strong jaws, and distinct ridges on its shell, resembling an alligator’s back.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Loggerhead Musk Turtle (Sternotherus minor)
A small aquatic turtle with a large head, similar to the loggerhead sea turtle. Found in the southeastern United States.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Found in freshwater habitats across eastern North America, this turtle is recognized by the map-like markings on its olive or brown shell. They are medium-sized and are particularly known for their keen eyesight.
Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys ouachitensis)
Native to the Ouachita River system in the United States, this species has a distinct pattern on its shell resembling contour lines on a map. They prefer large rivers with swift currents.
Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys kohnii)
The Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys kohnii), also known as the Sawback Turtle, is a medium-sized turtle native to the United States, particularly found in rivers and streams of the Mississippi River system.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Cumberland Slider (Trachemys scripta troostii)
The Cumberland Slider (Trachemys scripta troostii) is a subspecies of pond slider, primarily found in the Cumberland River system of the southeastern United States. It features a dark shell with yellow-green stripes and a distinctive red ear marking. Omnivorous, it thrives in freshwater habitats, feeding on plants and small animals.
Yellow-bellied Slider (Trachemys scripta scripta)
A freshwater turtle with a distinctive yellow belly, found in the southeastern United States. They are closely related to the red-eared slider and can grow to around 8-12 inches.
River Cooter (Pseudemys concinna)
A large, freshwater turtle with an oval, patterned shell, found in rivers and streams in the southeastern United States. They are strong swimmers and are often seen basking on logs or rocks.
Eastern River Cooter (Pseudemys concinna concinna)
A large, freshwater turtle with a dark shell marked with light yellow lines. Common in rivers and streams in the southeastern United States, it is known for basking in the sun and is an adept swimmer.
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Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
This species is found in the central United States and is known for the ornate, star-like patterns on its shell. They are relatively small, usually reaching around 4-5 inches in length, and prefer prairie habitats.
Gulf Coast Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina major)
A subspecies of the common box turtle, larger in size, found along the Gulf Coast. It has a dark shell with radiating yellow patterns.
Western River Cooter (Pseudemys gorzugi)
The Western River Cooter is a freshwater turtle native to the river systems of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Characterized by a relatively large, oval shell that can exhibit a variety of patterns but often includes intricate markings with a greenish to brown base color.
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
This turtle lives in brackish waters along the eastern and southern coasts of the U.S. It has a uniquely patterned shell and webbed feet.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Razorback Musk Turtle (Sternotherus carinatus)
A small, aquatic turtle known for the high, sharp-edged ridge down the center of its shell. Found in the southeastern United States, they inhabit slow-moving waters.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys ouachitensis)
Native to the Ouachita River system in the United States, this species has a distinct pattern on its shell resembling contour lines on a map. They prefer large rivers with swift currents.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)
One of the largest freshwater turtles in the world, found primarily in southeastern United States. Known for its massive size (up to 26 inches shell length), strong jaws, and distinct ridges on its shell, resembling an alligator’s back.
Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii)
Native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, this land-dwelling tortoise is adapted to a life in arid conditions. They have high-domed shells and can grow to about 10-14 inches in length. They spend much of their time in burrows to escape extreme temperatures.
Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta)
Large marine turtle known for its large head, found in oceans worldwide. Feeds primarily on invertebrates.
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Named for its green fat, this turtle is found in warm coastal waters around the world. It’s primarily herbivorous.
Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
The largest sea turtle species, distinguished by its leathery shell. Found globally, it feeds primarily on jellyfish.
Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
Recognizable by its pointed beak and beautiful shell, found in tropical oceans. Known for eating sponges.
Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)
The smallest sea turtle, known for its unique mass nesting behavior called arribada. Found mainly in the Gulf of Mexico.
Texas Tortoise (Gopherus berlandieri)
The Texas Tortoise is a relatively small species of tortoise native to the arid and semiarid regions of southern Texas and northeastern Mexico. It has a high-domed shell that ranges in color from brown to grayish, with distinctive growth lines on each scute. This terrestrial species prefers dry, sandy habitats where it feeds on a variety of grasses, cacti, and succulents.
Texas River Cooter (Pseudemys texana)
The Texas River Cooter is a freshwater turtle that inhabits the rivers, streams, and lakes of central and eastern Texas. It has a broad, smooth shell that is olive to dark green with light yellow stripes and can grow up to 12 inches in length. This species is distinguished by its webbed feet and the distinctive pattern of yellow stripes on its head.
Cagle’s Map Turtle (Graptemys caglei)
Cagle’s Map Turtle is a rare species of turtle found exclusively in the river systems of central Texas, particularly the Guadalupe River Basin. Named after herpetologist Fred A. Cagle, this species is easily recognized by its olive-green shell decorated with light yellow or orange markings that resemble a topographic map. Males are significantly smaller than females and have a more streamlined shell.
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Western Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta bellii)
This is a subspecies of the painted turtle, widely distributed across the western United States. It is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes and patterns on its skin and shell. The Western Painted Turtle inhabits freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. They are medium-sized, usually growing up to about 10 inches in shell length.
Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
This species is found in the central United States, particularly in grassland habitats. The Ornate Box Turtle is known for the beautiful, star-like patterns on its high-domed shell. They are relatively small, with adults typically reaching around 4-5 inches in length. This terrestrial turtle is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plants and small animals.
Western Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata)
The Western Box Turtle, also known as the Ornate Box Turtle, has a domed shell that features a stunning pattern of lines and blotches ranging from yellow to orange against a dark background. This terrestrial species is found in the grasslands and desert areas of the central and western United States. Unlike many turtles, the Western Box Turtle has the ability to completely close its shell, thanks to a hinged plastron. Its diet is omnivorous, including insects, vegetation, and carrion.
Mojave Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii)
The Mojave Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is a land-dwelling reptile native to the Mojave Desert regions of California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona in the United States. This species is well-adapted to life in harsh desert environments, exhibiting behaviors and physiological traits that allow it to thrive under extreme conditions of heat and aridity. The Mojave Desert Tortoise has a high-domed shell, which ranges in color from brown to gray, helping it blend into its surroundings.
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Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Similar to Barbour’s, this species has map-like markings on its shell and inhabits rivers and large lakes in North America.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Native Turtles In Virginia
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)
Inhabits brackish waters along the eastern and Gulf Coast of the United States. Known for its unique diamond-shaped carapace scutes and often gray to white skin with dark spots.
Stinkpot or Eastern Musk Turtle Or Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
A small, primarily aquatic turtle with a dark, unpatterned shell. Found throughout eastern North America, it releases a musky odor when threatened, hence the name “stinkpot.”
Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum)
A small, dull-colored turtle usually found in muddy or marshy environments of the eastern United States. They have a relatively unremarkable brown or black shell and are highly aquatic.
Striped Mud Turtle (Kinosternon baurii)
Similar to the Eastern Mud Turtle, this small species has three distinct stripes on its shell and inhabits freshwater environments in the southeastern U.S.
Eastern River Cooter (Pseudemys concinna concinna)
A large, freshwater turtle with a dark shell marked with light yellow lines. Common in rivers and streams in the southeastern United States, it is known for basking in the sun and is an adept swimmer.
Yellow-bellied Slider (Trachemys scripta scripta)
A freshwater turtle with a distinctive yellow belly, found in the southeastern United States. They are closely related to the red-eared slider and can grow to around 8-12 inches.
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
A popular pet turtle, recognizable by the distinctive red marks around its ears. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s highly adaptable and often found in ponds, lakes, and streams.
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Western Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta bellii)
This subspecies of the painted turtle is noted for its bright, colorful markings, with red and yellow stripes on its limbs and a dark shell with red and yellow patterns. They inhabit freshwater environments across the western United States and are medium-sized, usually growing up to 10 inches in length.
Western Pond Turtle (Actinemys marmorata)
This species, also known as the Pacific Pond Turtle, is found along the western coast of the United States, from Washington state to Baja California. They are medium-sized, typically growing up to 8 inches in shell length. Their shell is usually dark brown or olive, often with a marbled pattern. Western Pond Turtles inhabit a variety of water bodies, including ponds, streams, and rivers, and are known for their basking behavior.
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Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Found in freshwater habitats across eastern North America, this turtle is recognized by the map-like markings on its olive or brown shell. They are medium-sized and are particularly known for their keen eyesight.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
Native Turtles In Wisconsin
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)
A land-dwelling turtle with a domed shell that can close completely. It’s omnivorous and found in forested areas of the Eastern United States.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
A small, black turtle with distinct yellow spots on its shell. They prefer wetland habitats and are found in the eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii)
This medium-sized turtle has a distinctive bright yellow chin and throat. Its carapace is domed but slightly flattened and black with yellow speckles. Blanding’s Turtles are found in wetland areas of the Great Lakes region and the northeastern United States.
Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)
Also known as the “stinkpot,” this small turtle can release a foul odor. It has a small, unpatterned shell and inhabits slow-moving freshwater bodies.
Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
Found in freshwater habitats across eastern North America, this turtle is recognized by the map-like markings on its olive or brown shell. They are medium-sized and are particularly known for their keen eyesight.
Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica)
Known for its smooth, flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. Found in rivers and streams across the central United States, they are fast swimmers and agile on land.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Known for its sculpted, wood-like shell appearance, this turtle inhabits forested and semi-aquatic environments in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. They are medium-sized, omnivorous, and known for their intelligence.
False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)
Similar in appearance to other map turtles, this species is found in the Mississippi River Valley. It has a less pronounced ridge on its shell compared to the Northern Map Turtle.
Native Turtles In Wyoming
Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
This widely distributed North American turtle is known for its bright, colorful markings, including red, yellow, and green stripes on its limbs and shell. They inhabit freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers.
Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
Known for its powerful beak-like jaws and aggressive nature when out of water, this species is widespread across North America. They are large, often exceeding 18 inches in shell length and are predominantly aquatic.
Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
This species is characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like nose. They are found in various freshwater habitats across North America. They can be quite large, especially females, who are significantly larger than males, sometimes reaching over 18 inches in shell length. They are known for their agility in water and basking in the sun.