Turtles in Kentucky

The Adventures of 13 Turtles in Kentucky

There are 13 distinct species of these remarkable reptiles living in the beautiful state of Kentucky. The unique terrain of Kentucky provides an ideal habitat for many different kinds of turtles, including softshells, mud & musk turtles, painted turtles and map turtles.

There are even two rare species – the Cumberland Slider Turtle and Barbour’s Map Turtle – that can only be found in certain parts of Kentucky.

These creatures have been around since before human civilization began! They’ve managed to survive despite all sorts of threats such as habitat loss due to urbanization or changes in water quality caused by pollution. By looking closely at their behavior and habitats we can learn more about how these amazing animals live and thrive within our world today.

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1Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone Mutica)
  • Type: Mud turtle
  • Lifespan: 10 to 20 years
  • Size: Males: 4 – 7 inches, Females: 7 – 12+ inches
  • Weight: 40+ pounds
Adult Smooth Softshell Turtle
2Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone Spinifera)
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Lifespan: 40+ years
  • Size: 8 – 20+ inches
  • Weight: 25 pounds
Adult Spiny Softshell Turtle
3Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Lifespan: 50 years
  • Size: 19 inches
  • Weight: 40 pounds
Adult Common Snapping Turtle
4Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys Temminckii)
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Lifespan: 60-70 years
  • Size: 30 inches
  • Weight: 220 pounds
Adult Alligator Snapping Turtle
5Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Subrubrum)
  • Type: Mud turtle
  • Lifespan: 30 years
  • Size: 5 inches
  • Weight: 9.27 ounces
Adult Eastern Mud Turtle
6Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Odoratus)
  • Type: Terrestrial and aquatic turtle
  • Lifespan: 10-20 years
  • Size: 4-8 inches
  • Weight: 0.7 pounds
Adult Common Musk Turtle
7Southern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)
  • Type: Aquatic turtle
  • Lifespan: usually 20 – 30 years, but in better habitat can live up to 50 years
  • Size: 4 – 6 inches
  • Weight: Gets about 1 pound
Adult Southern Painted Turtle
8Common Map Turtle (Graptemys Geographica)
  • Type: Aquatic turtle
  • Lifespan: 20 years
  • Size: 8-10 inches
  • Weight: 1-2 pounds
Adult Common Map Turtle
9Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys Ouachitensis)
  • Type: Aquatic turtle
  • Lifespan: 30 – 50 years
  • Size: Males: 3 to 6.5 inches, Females: 4.0 to roughly 11 inches
  • Weight: 1.5 – 4.5 pounds
Adult Ouachita Map Turtle
10False Map Turtle (Graptemys Pseudogeographica)
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Lifespan: 10 to 20 years
  • Size: Females 8-10 inches; males reach 4-6 inches
  • Weight: Females 4 lbs; males 0.8 lbs
Adult False Map Turtle
11Eastern River Cooter (Pseudemys Concinna)
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Lifespan: 30 years
  • Size: 11 inches
  • Weight: 8 pounds
Adult Eastern River Cooter
12Red Eared Slider (Trachemys Scripta Elegans)
  • Type: Aquatic turtle
  • Lifespan: 20 – 30 years
  • Size: 7 – 12 inches, Females get larger than 12 inches
  • Weight: 3 – 6 pounds
Adult Red Eared Slider
13Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene Carolina)
  • Type: Terrestrial turtle
  • Lifespan: 60 years
  • Size: 4-10 inches
  • Weight: Male: 1 pounds, females: 2 pounds
Adult Eastern Box Turtle

13 Turtles You Can Find in Kentucky

In total, there are 13 species of turtles in the state of Kentucky. This guide will take you on an exploration through each turtle type and provide tips for providing them with proper care. So, let’s get started on our journey into discovering all the wonders that these reptiles have to offer!

1. Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone Mutica)

  • Family: Trionychidae
  • Genus: Apalone
  • Type: Mud turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Marshes, streams, drainage ditches, and occasionally ponds.
  • Lifespan: 10 to 20 years
  • Also Known As: American softshell turtles
  • Maximum Size: Males: 4 – 7 inches, females: 7 – 12+ inches
  • Maximum Weight: 40+ pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Metabolic bone disease
  • Disease Carrier: Foodborne infections, vibrio cholerae
  • Aggression Level: Aggressive
  • Predators: Turtle eggs are a food source for birds such as racoons and red foxes, as well as bears. younger turtles are prey for large fish and other turtles, as well as mammals like the skunk and armadillo. alligators are the main danger to adult turtles.
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pets
Adult Smooth Softshell Turtle

Fully-Grown Smooth Softshell Turtle

Smooth Softshell Turtle Babies

Smooth Softshell Turtle Hatchling

Adult Smooth Softshell Turtle

Fully-Grown Smooth Softshell Turtle

The Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica), is an aquatic species of turtle found across parts of the United States, including Kentucky, Mississippi River valley, Great Lakes region and mid-Atlantic states. With a carapace length making them among the largest freshwater turtles in North America – they range from 4 to 8 inches in size when young but can grow up to 28 inches long and weigh up to 20 pounds as adults.

This unique species has evolved many features that make them ideal for life underwater; possessed with powerful webbed feet for swimming, sharp claws for clinging onto submerged rocks and a flat shell which helps reduce drag – allowing them to move quickly and efficiently through their surroundings.

Unfortunately however, due to loss of habitat, hunting and other factors some populations are now threatened or endangered. Despite this somber message though; I am encouraged that these creatures remain safe from commercial exploitation elsewhere meaning there is still hope yet for this remarkable species!

2. Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone Spinifera)

  • Family: Trionychidae
  • Genus: Apalone
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Predominantly discovered in rivers and lakes, can also be found in nearby creek beds and smaller water bodies such as ditches and ponds.
  • Lifespan: 40+ years
  • Also Known As: Spinifera (spine-bearing), spiny
  • Maximum Size: 8 – 20+ inches
  • Maximum Weight: 25 pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Vitamin deficiencies, metabolic bone disease, and intestinal parasites
  • Disease Carrier: Foodborne infections, vibrio cholerae
  • Aggression Level: Aggressive when threatened
  • Predators: Raccoons, skunks, and foxes frequently disrupt the nesting sites of spiny softshell turtles. while young softshell turtles face predation from raccoons, herons, and big fish, adult turtles mainly fall victim to human hunting and lack significant natural predators.
  • Domestication: Cane be kept as pets
Adult Spiny Softshell Turtle

Fully-Grown Spiny Softshell Turtle

Spiny Softshell Turtle Babies

Spiny Softshell Turtle Hatchling

Adult Spiny Softshell Turtle

Fully-Grown Spiny Softshell Turtle

The Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone Spinifera) is a species of freshwater turtle found in the rivers, streams and lakes across Kentucky. They are an impressive creature with adults reaching 8-14 inches in length and males weighing up to 3 pounds while females can reach up to 8 pounds. These turtles have remarkable adaptations such as webbed feet, streamline shells and long snorkel like nasal tubes for breathing underwater.

Unfortunately, some populations of these beautiful creatures may be declining due to rapid habitat loss or exploitation but luckily they are not currently listed as endangered species – yet.

When given proper care, maintenance and facilities these turtles can make great pets; however it’s best practice to always check with local authorities first because it might be illegal from state to state. They are usually quite gentle but can become aggressive when feeling threatened or cornered so it’s crucial for their owners to educate themselves about how best handle them correctly.

See Also  The Wonders of 17 Turtles in Oklahoma

By taking the necessary steps we can ensure that this amazing species will continue to thrive!

3. Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)

  • Family: Chelydridae
  • Genus: Chelydra
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Freshwater habitats such as lakes, rivers, and swamps
  • Lifespan: 50 years
  • Maximum Size: 19 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 40 pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Fungal infections and shell rot
  • Aggression Level: Not aggressive until provoked
  • Predators: River otters, bears and coyotes
  • Domestication: Not recommended as pets
Adult Common Snapping Turtle

Fully-Grown Common Snapping Turtle

Common Snapping Turtle Babies

Common Snapping Turtle Hatchling

Adult Common Snapping Turtle

Fully-Grown Common Snapping Turtle

The Common Snapping Turtle, scientifically known as Chelydra serpentina, is an aquatic species native to freshwater habitats such as lakes, rivers and swamps. These turtles are highly adaptable and can live up to 50 years in the wild.

Adult Common Snapping Turtles typically measure 10-16 inches in shell length but can grow up to 19 inches and weigh around 40 pounds. They have a powerful bite with an estimated pressure of over 600 psi, making them one of the strongest biters among reptiles. Despite their strength they are generally not aggressive animals, though it is best to not provoke them and take caution around them.

Common Snapping Turtles often face threats from predators such as river otters, bears and coyotes when living out in the wild.

Unfortunately, their habitat is also threatened by human activities such as development and pollution which can lead to a decrease in population numbers if conservation efforts are not taken soon here in Kentucky.

Although they make fascinating pets due to their long lifespan of up to 50 years when cared for properly, some states have regulations or restrictions on owning them so check with local authorities before acquiring this species as a pet.

These turtles have webbed feet for swimming and a long tail for propulsion allowing them to move quickly through water which also makes them difficult prey for predators.

Furthermore, although they occupy multiple states across North America from Alabama to Wyoming there is no other name than the Common Snapping Turtle so it’s easy to identify.

It should be noted that this species does not carry any significant disease that can be transmitted to humans yet they may still be prone to diseases like fungal infections or shell rot when kept in unsanitary conditions so proper care must be taken here in Kentucky when considering owning one of these remarkable creatures as a pet.

4. Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys Temminckii)

  • Family: Chelydridae
  • Genus: Macrochelys
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Slow-moving rivers, canals, lakes, and swamps in the southeastern united states
  • Lifespan: 60-70 years
  • Maximum Size: 30 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 220 pounds
  • Aggression Level: Moderate
  • Predators: Large fish, birds of prey, and humans
  • Domestication: Not recommended as pet
Adult Alligator Snapping Turtle

Fully-Grown Alligator Snapping Turtle

Alligator Snapping Turtle Babies

Alligator Snapping Turtle Hatchling

Adult Alligator Snapping Turtle

Fully-Grown Alligator Snapping Turtle

The Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) is a large freshwater turtle native to the southeastern United States. Adults can reach up to 30 inches in length and weigh up to 220 pounds. Juvenile alligator snapping turtles are much smaller, usually between 4-10 inches in length. When you’ll come across this species in Kentucky, you’ll notice that it has a very unique appearance, with an oversized head and a spiked tail that looks like an alligator’s claw.

The shell of this turtle is dark brown or black with yellow spots and stripes over it, giving the impression of scales on an alligator’s back.

Alligator snapping turtles are powerful predators and their bite force is strong enough to break through bone. They feed mainly on fish but also consume invertebrates, amphibians, and other turtles. These turtles are ambush predators, waiting for prey to come close before attacking. They are not considered aggressive towards humans but should still be handled with caution as they may bite if startled.

In the wild, alligator snapping turtles can live up to 60-70 years and have few natural predators due to their large size. However, their populations have declined in some areas due to habitat loss, illegal harvesting, and pollution. In order to protect this species from further decline, many states regulate or ban the possession of alligator snapping turtles as pets. Furthermore, it is important that you research the specific laws and regulations of your state or municipality before owning a pet turtle.

5. Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Subrubrum)

  • Family: Kinosternidae
  • Genus: Kinosternon
  • Type: Mud turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Freshwater wetlands, swamps, and slow-moving streams
  • Lifespan: 30 years
  • Maximum Size: 5 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 9.27 ounces
  • Aggression Level: Low
  • Predators: Raccoons, snakes, and birds of prey
  • Domestication: Not suitable as a pet
Adult Eastern Mud Turtle

Fully-Grown Eastern Mud Turtle

Eastern Mud Turtle Babies

Eastern Mud Turtle Hatchling

Adult Eastern Mud Turtle

Fully-Grown Eastern Mud Turtle

The Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum) is a small freshwater turtle found in the southeastern United States, including Kentucky. This species of turtle is known for its highly aquatic adaptations and webbed feet, which make it well-suited to life in slow-moving streams, swamps, and wetlands. The Eastern Mud Turtle can reach up to 5 inches in length and has a maximum weight of 9.27 ounces. It is not aggressive, but may bite if provoked—so exercise caution when near any wild turtles!

The diet of the Eastern Mud Turtle consists primarily of aquatic invertebrates such as snails, worms, and insects. They are also opportunistic scavengers, meaning they will take advantage of carrion when available. Predators of this species include raccoons, snakes, and birds of prey. The lifespan of these turtles is up to 30 years in the wild and due to their abundance across the southeastern United States are not listed as threatened or endangered.

Although they do not make suitable pets due to their size and temperament being unsuitable for captivity, taking care to observe local wildlife regulations is important when interacting with wild Eastern Mud Turtles in Kentucky . Taking steps such as preserving their natural habitats helps protect this species from destruction or poaching—ensuring they remain an iconic part of our environment for many more years to come!

See Also  Marvels of the Shell: Types of Turtles Found in the USA

6. Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Odoratus)

  • Family: Kinosternidae
  • Genus: Sternotherus
  • Type: Terrestrial and aquatic turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Streams, rivers, ponds, and swamps in eastern north america
  • Lifespan: 10-20 years
  • Also Known As: Stinkpot
  • Maximum Size: 4-8 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 0.7 pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Respiratory infections and shell rot
  • Aggression Level: Agressive but not known to bite humans
  • Predators: Raccoons, mink, birds of prey, and large fish
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pets
Adult Common Musk Turtle

Fully-Grown Common Musk Turtle

Common Musk Turtle Babies

Common Musk Turtle Hatchling

Adult Common Musk Turtle

Fully-Grown Common Musk Turtle

The Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Odoratus) is a terrestrial and aquatic turtle found in streams, rivers, ponds, and swamps throughout the eastern United States. This species can reach an impressive length of 4-8 inches when fully grown, with an average weight of 0.7 pounds. Interestingly, these turtles are also known as ‘Stinkpots’ due to their ability to secrete a musky odour when alarmed or threatened.

Their flat carapace makes them well adapted for life in the water, with strong webbed feet and sharp claws helping them cling onto rocks or vegetation while searching for food. As omnivores they feed on snails, clams and other insects as well as plant matter such as algae and leaves – making them a vital part of the local ecosystem here in Kentucky. They are generally non-aggressive but may bite if disturbed or threatened by predators such as river otters, raccoons, mink and birds of prey.

The Common Musk Turtle is not currently listed as an endangered species but habitat loss due to human activities such as development and pollution can lead to a decrease in population numbers – especially without proper conservation efforts. Additionally, illegal pet trade can be an issue that affects their vulnerability so it’s important to check local regulations before acquiring this species as a pet.

Despite all this however, with proper care these turtles have been known to live up to 20 years making them great companions for experienced keepers who are willing to put in the effort necessary for their special care needs here in Kentucky.

7. Southern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Chrysemys
  • Type: Aquatic turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Likes bodies of water with soft mud floors and abundant aquatic plants, e.g. rivers, lakes, wetlands, oxbows, ponds, ditches, and reservoirs.
  • Lifespan: Usually 20 – 30 years, but in better habitat can live up to 50 years
  • Maximum Size: 4 – 6 inches
  • Maximum Weight: Gets about 1 pound
  • Prone to Diseases: Vitamin deficiencies, metabolic bone disease, and intestinal parasites
  • Disease Carrier: Salmonella
  • Aggression Level: Aggressive baskers
  • Predators: Raccoons, skunks, foxes, herons, other birds, snakes, and large predaceous fish
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pets
Adult Southern Painted Turtle

Fully-Grown Southern Painted Turtle

Southern Painted Turtle Babies

Southern Painted Turtle Hatchling

Adult Southern Painted Turtle

Fully-Grown Southern Painted Turtle

The Southern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys Picta) is one of the most recognizably patterned freshwater turtles native to Kentucky. These aquatic reptiles can be found in wetland habitats such as ponds, streams and slow-moving rivers. Adults typically reach a length between 4.5 to 10 inches – with females being larger than their male counterparts while they also maintain an impressive lifespan of up to 30 years!

These turtles have webbed feet, streamlined shells and retractable heads that provide them with excellent adaptations for swimming along with protection from predators. Among such predators are crows, raccoons, skunks, herons – and even larger fish that pose a threat if populations become too large.

Although these animals are not considered endangered species overall, some populations may be declining due to habitat loss or exploitation so it’s important for us all to do our part in preserving them where possible. As for those considering keeping them as pets? Please check local regulations first before taking any turtle home!

8. Common Map Turtle (Graptemys Geographica)

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Graptemys
  • Type: Aquatic turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Freshwater rivers, streams, and ponds in the eastern united states
  • Lifespan: 20 years
  • Also Known As: Map turtle, northern map turtle
  • Maximum Size: 8-10 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 1-2 pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Respiratory infections and shell rot
  • Aggression Level: Not aggressive
  • Predators: Otters, raccoons, birds of prey, and large fish
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pets
Adult Common Map Turtle

Fully-Grown Common Map Turtle

Common Map Turtle Babies

Common Map Turtle Hatchling

Adult Common Map Turtle

Fully-Grown Common Map Turtle

Deep in the freshwater rivers, streams and ponds of the eastern United States lies a remarkable species of turtle – the Common Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica). This species is part of the Emydidae family, and is well-adapted to aquatic life, boasting powerful webbed feet, a long neck and flat shell for swimming. Adults can grow up to 8-10 inches in length with little size variation between males and females, ranging from 1 to 2 pounds in weight.

The Common Map Turtle is often confused with other members of its genus; however, it can be easily identified by its unique pattern of yellow lines that resemble a map on its shell. Its lifespan can reach up to 20 years when kept in proper conditions. It’s important to note that this species is illegal to own as a pet in some states due to varying regulations; therefore it’s essential to check your local state laws before attempting ownership.

These turtles may not be aggressive by nature but they may bite if threatened or disturbed. They are also prone to diseases such as respiratory infections and shell rot if kept in unsanitary conditions – so it’s important to take special care when handling them if you decide to keep them as pets.

As far as predators go, otters, raccoons, birds of prey and large fish all pose a threat despite their adaptations for aquatic life. Thankfully, there are no signs that this magnificent species is currently endangered here in Kentucky.

9. Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys Ouachitensis)

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Graptemys
  • Type: Aquatic turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Slow-moving freshwater rivers, streams, and lakes
  • Lifespan: 30 – 50 years
  • Also Known As: Sawback
  • Maximum Size: Males: 3 to 6.5 inches, females: 4.0 to roughly 11 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 1.5 – 4.5 pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Shell rot, respiratory infections
  • Disease Carrier: Salmonella
  • Aggression Level: Not aggressive
  • Predators: Raccoons, skunks, and foxes
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pet
See Also  The Vibrant Lives of 34 Turtles in Mississippi
Adult Ouachita Map Turtle

Fully-Grown Ouachita Map Turtle

Ouachita Map Turtle Babies

Ouachita Map Turtle Hatchling

Adult Ouachita Map Turtle

Fully-Grown Ouachita Map Turtle

Have you ever seen the magnificent Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys ouachitensis)? This freshwater turtle is found in slow-moving rivers, streams, and oxbow lakes in Arkansas and Oklahoma.

With adult sizes measuring 8-11 inches in length, these turtles make for a great pet – though it’s important to check local regulations as Kentucky may have different restrictions when it comes to owning a turtle.

They are not aggressive by nature but can fall prey to predators like raccoons and otters or even large fish or birds of prey on occasion. When cared for properly, these turtles can live up to 20-30 years!

10. False Map Turtle (Graptemys Pseudogeographica)

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Graptemys
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Large rivers, lakes and backwaters of the mississippi river system
  • Lifespan: 10 to 20 years
  • Maximum Size: Females 8-10 inches; males reach 4-6 inches
  • Maximum Weight: Females 4 lbs; males 0.8 lbs
  • Prone to Diseases: Respiratory infections, shell rot, and other health issues
  • Aggression Level: Low
  • Predators: Birds of prey, raccoons, and other large mammals
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pets
Adult False Map Turtle

Fully-Grown False Map Turtle

False Map Turtle Babies

False Map Turtle Hatchling

Adult False Map Turtle

Fully-Grown False Map Turtle

False Map Turtles are freshwater turtles native to the large rivers, lakes and backwaters of the Mississippi River system. Males grow up to 6 inches in length and can weigh up to 0.8lbs, while females typically reach 8-10 inches in size and weigh 4 lbs.

This species is well adapted for aquatic life – with a streamlined shell and strong legs for swimming, they are graceful swimmers. Best known for their intricate map-like shell patterning, these turtles have relatively low levels of aggression so can be kept as pets under supervision with proper care and nutrition.

Despite not being considered endangered yet, we must protect False Map Turtle habitats throughout Kentucky before populations decline further due to habitat loss or collection for the pet trade!

11. Eastern River Cooter (Pseudemys Concinna)

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Pseudemys
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Slow-moving rivers, swamps, and other aquatic environments
  • Lifespan: 30 years
  • Maximum Size: 11 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 8 pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Respiratory infections, shell rot, and parasites
  • Aggression Level: Not known to be aggressive
  • Predators: Raccoons, foxes, etc.
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pets
Adult Eastern River Cooter

Fully-Grown Eastern River Cooter

Eastern River Cooter Babies

Eastern River Cooter Hatchling

Adult Eastern River Cooter

Fully-Grown Eastern River Cooter

The Eastern River Cooter (Pseudemys concinna) is a beautiful freshwater turtle found in the southeastern United States, including states such as Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Florida. With its wide flat shell adorned with striking markings of yellow and red it’s certainly an impressive sight to behold.

These unique creatures typically grow up to 10-15 inches in length; males usually being smaller than females. They have strong webbed feet and streamlined shells that make them exceptionally adapted to aquatic environments like slow-moving rivers, swamps, and lakes of Kentucky. In the wild they can live up to 30 years but if well looked after they can reach 20 or more years in captivity; making them attractive pet options for those looking for long term companionship.

Their natural habitats however are under threat due to human activity so by protecting their environment we can help ensure that this stunning species remain part of our ecosystem for many generations in Kentucky.

12. Red Eared Slider (Trachemys Scripta Elegans)

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Trachemys
  • Type: Aquatic turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, swamps, and marshes
  • Lifespan: 20 – 30 years
  • Also Known As: Red-eared terrapin
  • Maximum Size: 7 – 12 inches, females get larger than 12 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 3 – 6 pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Respiratory infections, shell rot, and other diseases if kept in unsanitary conditions.
  • Disease Carrier: Salmonella
  • Aggression Level: Not aggressive
  • Predators: Raccoons, otters, fish, frogs, snakes, skunks and birds
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pets
Adult Red Eared Slider

Fully-Grown Red Eared Slider

Red Eared Slider Babies

Red Eared Slider Hatchling

Adult Red Eared Slider

Fully-Grown Red Eared Slider

The Red Eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) is a freshwater reptile with a striking appearance. Found in Kentucky’s waterways, these turtles can reach up to 10-12 inches long as adults and can live for an impressive 30 years. They have webbed feet that are adapted for swimming, making them incredibly agile aquatic creatures.

Males and females exhibit different size ranges, with males being more diminutive compared to the females and juveniles measuring only 2-3 inches when fully grown. Although they may take on aggressive postures if threatened, their bite force is not enough to cause any damage to humans or other larger animals.

It’s important that we respect the habitats of these amazing reptiles so that future generations will be able to enjoy them too – keep their environments clean by disposing of garbage properly and avoid disturbing the fragile ecosystems where they make their homes!

13. Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene Carolina)

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Terrapene
  • Type: Terrestrial turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Deciduous and mixed forests, meadows, and fields
  • Lifespan: 60 years
  • Also Known As: Eastern terrapin
  • Maximum Size: 4-10 inches
  • Maximum Weight: Male: 1 pounds, females: 2 pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Respiratory infections, shell rot, and other diseases
  • Aggression Level: Not aggressive towards humans
  • Predators: Raccoons, skunks, opossums, and snakes
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pets
Adult Eastern Box Turtle

Fully-Grown Eastern Box Turtle

Eastern Box Turtle Babies

Eastern Box Turtle Hatchling

Adult Eastern Box Turtle

Fully-Grown Eastern Box Turtle

The Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene Carolina) is one of the most intriguing species found in deciduous and mixed forests, meadows, and fields of eastern North America. This incredible turtle can live up to 40 years in the wild or even reach up to 60 years in captivity! With adult sizes ranging from 4-10 inches, males being slightly smaller than females with a weight of 0.5-1 lb for males and 1-2 lbs for females.

Eastern Box Turtles are not too aggressive towards humans but potential predators may include raccoons, skunks, opossums, and snakes. They can be kept as pets but it is important to consult local laws before doing so since some states make it illegal to collect wild turtles or sell them as pets—including Kentucky. Captive Eastern Box Turtles may be prone to respiratory infections, shell rot, and other diseases common to captive turtles.

This species is state-protected in several states due to the declining population caused by habitat loss and illegal collection for the pet trade. Despite this precarious situation, Eastern Box Turtles can still be found in eastern North America—including Kentucky. It is essential that we take steps to protect this species which calls Kentucky home by preserving their natural habitats as well as improving public awareness of their plight!

Final Words

In the state of Kentucky—a place rich in biodiversity—turtles play a significant role; with a variety of species dwelling in its forests, beaches, and rivers.

In this article, we took a closer look at these fascinating creatures (including their natural habitats, lifespan, size and weight, predators, and domesticability). It’s worth noting that, while keeping these turtles as pets is legal; their populations in Kentucky may be declining due to habitat loss and collection for the pet trade.

It is our responsibility to ensure that these turtles remain protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy in the state of Kentucky.

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