Native Turtles In Florida
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Pseudemys peninsularis (Peninsula Cooter)
Pseudemys peninsularis, or the Peninsula Cooter, is a freshwater turtle known for its striking patterns and calm behavior. It’s often seen basking in sunny spots across Florida’s wetlands and rivers. This species is a favorite among local nature watchers due to its size and social nature. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: EmydidaeGenus: PseudemysSpecies:…
Pseudemys nelsoni (Florida Red-bellied Cooter)
Pseudemys nelsoni, or the Florida Red-bellied Cooter, is a freshwater turtle known for its bright reddish plastron and calm nature. It’s often seen basking in the sun across the southeastern United States, especially in Florida. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: EmydidaeGenus: PseudemysSpecies: P. nelsoni Common Names Florida Red-bellied CooterFlorida Red-bellied Turtle Identification DescriptionThis…
Pseudemys floridana (Florida Cooter)
Pseudemys floridana, known as the Florida cooter, is a large, freshwater turtle native to the southeastern United States. It’s known for its smooth, olive-brown shell and fast swimming abilities in rivers and ponds. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: EmydidaeGenus: PseudemysSpecies: P. floridana Common Names Florida CooterCoastal Plain Cooter Identification DescriptionFlorida cooters have a…
Pseudemys concinna (Eastern River Cooter)
The Eastern River Cooter is a large, freshwater turtle commonly found in rivers and streams across the southeastern United States. It is known for its striking shell patterns and herbivorous diet, often seen basking on logs or rocks near water. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: EmydidaeGenus: PseudemysSpecies: Pseudemys concinna Common Names Eastern River…
Trachemys scripta elegans (Red Eared Slider)
The red-eared slider is one of the most recognized freshwater turtles in the world. Its striking red stripe behind each eye makes it easy to spot. This turtle is popular in the pet trade and often seen basking on logs in ponds and lakes. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: EmydidaeGenus: TrachemysSpecies: Trachemys scriptaSubspecies:…
Trachemys scripta scripta (Yellow-bellied slider)
The yellow-bellied slider is a freshwater turtle found in the southeastern United States. It’s known for its bright yellow markings and strong swimming ability. This turtle is often seen basking on logs or rocks in ponds and slow-moving rivers. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: EmydidaeGenus: TrachemysSpecies: Trachemys scriptaSubspecies: Trachemys scripta scripta Common Names…
Trachemys scripta (Pond Slider)
The Pond Slider is one of the most recognizable turtles in the world, known for the red streaks on both sides of its head. It’s often seen basking in the sun on logs or rocks near freshwater areas and is a common pet turtle in many countries. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: EmydidaeGenus:…
Trachemys grayi (Gray’s Slider)
Trachemys grayi, also known as Gray’s Slider, is a freshwater turtle found primarily in Central America. It’s closely related to the more well-known Red-Eared Slider and shares many of its behaviors but is geographically more restricted. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: EmydidaeGenus: TrachemysSpecies: Trachemys grayi Common Names Gray’s SliderMesoamerican Slider Identification DescriptionGray’s Slider…
Terrapene carolina major (Gulf Coast Box Turtle)
The Gulf Coast Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina major) is the largest subspecies of the Common Box Turtle, known for its robust size and highly domed shell. Found along the Gulf of Mexico’s coastal regions, it thrives in humid environments and exhibits strong terrestrial tendencies while occasionally wading in shallow waters. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass:…
Terrapene carolina bauri (Florida Box Turtle)
The Florida Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina bauri) is a subspecies of the Common Box Turtle, found primarily in Florida. Known for its striking yellow stripe patterns on a dark shell, this terrestrial turtle thrives in humid environments and is well-adapted to both forests and wetlands. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: EmydidaeGenus: TerrapeneSpecies: Terrapene…
Terrapene carolina carolina (Eastern Box Turtle)
The Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) is a small, terrestrial turtle known for its high-domed shell and ability to close itself completely using a hinged plastron. Native to the eastern United States, it is a long-lived species often found in forests and grasslands, where it thrives in humid environments. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass:…
Terrapene carolina (Common Box Turtle)
Terrapene carolina, commonly known as the Common Box Turtle, is a terrestrial species native to North America. Recognized for its domed shell and hinged plastron, it can completely close itself inside for protection. This turtle is known for its long lifespan, sometimes exceeding 100 years. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: EmydidaeGenus: TerrapeneSpecies: T….
Sternotherus odoratus (eastern musk turtle)
Sternotherus odoratus, known as the eastern musk turtle, is a small aquatic turtle found in eastern North America. It’s famous for the strong, foul odor it releases when threatened, which led to its nickname “stinkpot.” This hardy species thrives in various freshwater habitats and is known for its secretive nature. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass:…
Sternotherus minor (Loggerhead Musk Turtle)
Sternotherus minor, known as the Loggerhead musk turtle, is a small freshwater turtle found in the southeastern United States. It gets its name from its large, broad head, which is much larger in proportion to its body compared to other musk turtles. Its strong jaws help it feed on hard-shelled prey in its river and…
Malaclemys terrapin (Diamondback Terrapin)
Malaclemys terrapin, commonly known as the Diamondback Terrapin, is a brackish water turtle native to the coastal regions of the United States. Known for its unique diamond-patterned carapace, this species thrives in marshy habitats and plays a vital ecological role. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: EmydidaeGenus: MalaclemysSpecies: M. terrapin Common Names Diamondback TerrapinSaltwater…
Macrochelys temminckii (Alligator Snapping Turtle)
Macrochelys temminckii, commonly known as the alligator snapping turtle, is one of the largest freshwater turtles in the world. Known for its prehistoric appearance, it thrives in the rivers and swamps of the southeastern United States. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: ChelydridaeGenus: MacrochelysSpecies: M. temminckii Common Names Alligator snapping turtleLoggerhead snapping turtle Identification…
Macrochelys suwanniensis (Suwannee Alligator Snapping Turtle)
The Suwannee Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys suwanniensis) is a large freshwater turtle native to the Suwannee River system. Known for its prehistoric appearance and powerful jaws, this species is distinct from its close relative, the Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii). Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: ChelydridaeGenus: MacrochelysSpecies: Macrochelys suwanniensis Common Names Suwannee Alligator…
Kinosternon subrubrum (Eastern Mud Turtle)
The Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum) is a small, semi-aquatic turtle known for its adaptability and inconspicuous nature. Its unassuming shell and secretive behavior make it a fascinating species native to the southeastern United States. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: KinosternidaeGenus: KinosternonSpecies: subrubrum Common Names Eastern Mud Turtle, Common Mud Turtle Identification DescriptionEastern…
Kinosternon steindachneri (Florida mud turtle)
Kinosternon steindachneri, commonly known as the Florida mud turtle, is a small freshwater species native to the southeastern United States. Known for its secretive and aquatic nature, it thrives in shallow water bodies with muddy bottoms. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: KinosternidaeGenus: KinosternonSpecies: Kinosternon steindachneri Common Names Identification Description: The Florida mud turtle…
Lepidochelys kempii (Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle)
Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle is a small marine turtle with a round, grayish-green shell and a lighter underside. It is often found in warm coastal waters and is known for its unique nesting behavior. Its numbers have been low, making it one of the most endangered sea turtles on the planet. Scientific Classification Common Names…
Kinosternon baurii (Striped Mud Turtle)
Kinosternon baurii, commonly known as the Striped Mud Turtle, is a small aquatic turtle native to the southeastern United States. Recognizable by the three distinct stripes running along its carapace, this species thrives in freshwater habitats like ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams. Its unique adaptations make it a fascinating subject for both herpetologists and nature…
Graptemys ernsti (Escambia Map Turtle)
The Escambia Map Turtle (Graptemys ernsti) is a medium-sized freshwater turtle native to the southeastern United States. Recognized for its intricately patterned shell resembling a topographic map, this species inhabits a limited range, making it of particular interest to conservationists and herpetologists alike. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description The Escambia Map Turtle features an…
Graptemys barbouri (Barbour’s Map Turtle)
Barbour’s Map Turtle (Graptemys barbouri) is a freshwater turtle species native to the southeastern United States. Named in honor of American herpetologist Thomas Barbour, this turtle is recognized for its distinctively patterned shell and the prominent spines along its back, resembling a topographic map. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Barbour’s Map Turtle is a…
Gopherus polyphemus (Gopher Tortoise)
The Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is a land-dwelling reptile known for its burrowing habits and its vital role in the ecosystem, providing shelter to hundreds of other species. Primarily found in the southeastern United States, this tortoise is a keystone species with significant ecological importance. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification DescriptionThe Gopher Tortoise has a…
Eretmochelys imbricata (Hawksbill Sea Turtle)
The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is a critically endangered species known for its strikingly beautiful, overlapping shell plates that have been used historically in the tortoiseshell trade. These turtles are primarily found in tropical coral reefs and are essential for maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Hawksbill turtles are medium-sized, growing…
Dermochelys coriacea (Leatherback Sea Turtle)
Dermochelys coriacea, commonly known as the leatherback sea turtle, is the largest and most unique of all sea turtles. Unlike other species, it has a soft, leathery shell rather than a hard one and can travel incredible distances across the oceans. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Leatherbacks are pelagic,…
Deirochelys reticularia (Chicken Turtle)
Deirochelys reticularia is commonly known as the chicken turtle due to its long neck resembling that of a chicken. It’s a semi-aquatic species, often found in slow-moving waters and known for its distinctive reticulated shell pattern, which is where it gets its scientific name. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat…
Chelydra serpentina (Common Snapping Turtle)
Chelydra serpentina, commonly known as the common snapping turtle, is a large freshwater turtle native to North America. This species is known for its powerful jaws and aggressive behavior when out of the water, although it prefers to avoid confrontation in its natural habitat. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description The common snapping turtle has…
Chelonia mydas (Green Sea Turtle)
Chelonia mydas, commonly known as the Green Sea Turtle, is a large marine reptile recognized for its unique greenish-colored fat. This species is known for its long migrations and vital role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description:Green Sea Turtles are large, with a carapace length that can reach…
Clemmys guttata (Spotted Turtle)
Clemmys guttata, commonly known as the spotted turtle, is a small, semi-aquatic turtle that is easily recognizable by its distinctive yellow spots against a dark carapace. This species is known for its gentle disposition and striking appearance. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Spotted turtles prefer shallow, muddy-bottomed water bodies…
Caretta caretta (Loggerhead sea turtle)
The Caretta caretta, commonly known as the loggerhead sea turtle, is a marine species notable for its large head and robust body. As one of the ocean’s most migratory creatures, these turtles play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, primarily through their influence on other species and their habitats. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native…
Apalone spinifera (Spiny softshell turtle)
Apalone spinifera, commonly known as the spiny softshell turtle, is a unique species of softshell turtle that is notable for its leathery carapace and spiny projections along the front edge. This turtle is adapted to a life predominantly in water, displaying a streamlined body for efficient swimming. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Description Apalone spinifera…
Apalone ferox (Florida Softshell Turtle)
Apalone ferox, commonly known as the Florida softshell turtle, is a large freshwater turtle native to the southeastern United States. Characterized by its flat, leathery shell and snorkel-like snout, this species is a notable member of the North American softshell turtles. Scientific Classification Common Names Identification Native Origin and Distribution Preferred Habitat Apalone ferox prefers…
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