The Colorful Lives of 26 Turtles in Louisiana

Did you know that there are a total of 26 different species of turtles in the state of Louisiana? From Box Turtles to Cooters, Snapping Turtles and even Diamondback Terrapins – these hard-shelled creatures can be found all across Louisiana!

They inhabit a variety of habitats from swamps, marshes and bayous to rivers, lakes and ponds. Not only do they provide an essential ecological balance by controlling insect populations but they also make for some interesting wildlife viewing opportunities!

So if you’re ever in Louisiana make sure you take some time to appreciate these amazing reptiles.

#	Name	Details	Image
1	Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene Ornata Ornata)	Type: Terrestrial turtle Lifespan: 30 – 40 years Size: 4-5 inches Weight: 1-1.5 pounds
2	Three-toed Box Turtle (Terrapene Carolina Triunguis)	Type: Semi-aquatic turtle Lifespan: 30 – 40 years Size: 5 – 7 inches Weight: up to 2 pounds
3	Chicken Turtle (Deirochelys Reticularia)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 40 years Size: 9 inches Weight: 2 pounds
4	Eastern River Cooter (Pseudemys Concinna)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 30 years Size: 11 inches Weight: 8 pounds
5	Mississippi Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys Terrapin pileata)	Type: Terrestrial and Aquatic Lifespan: 20-30 years Size: Males: 5.5 inches, Females: 11 inches Weight: Males: 11 ounces, females: 18 ounces
6	Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys Pseudogeographica Kohnii)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 30 years Size: Males: 7 inches, Females: 12 inches Weight: Males: 1 pounds, females: 2 pounds
7	Ouachita 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
8	Pearl River Map Turtle (Graptemys Pearlensis)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 30 years Size: Males: 121mm, Females: 296mm Weight: 0.700 – 7+ pounds
9	Ringed Map Turtle (Graptemys Oculifera)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: Around 30 years Size: Males: 4 inches, Females can get up to 8 inches Weight: Males weigh around 1 pound, Females weigh 1.5 – pounds
10	Sabine Map Turtle (Graptemys Ouachitensis)	Type: Aquatic Turtle Lifespan: 11 to 15+ years Size: Males: 5+ inches, Females: 10+ inches Weight: 1 – 2 pounds
11	Mississippi Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Subrubrum)	Type: Semi-aquatic Turtle Lifespan: 15 and 20+ years Weight: 10 to 35 pounds
12	Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Odoratus)	Type: Terrestrial and aquatic turtle Lifespan: 10-20 years Size: 4-8 inches Weight: 0.7 pounds
13	Razor-backed Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Carinatus)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 20 – 40 years Size: roughly 6 inches Weight: 0.5 to 1 pound
14	Stripe-necked Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Minor peltifer)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 70+ years Size: 3 – 4 inches Weight: Barely gets 1 pound
15	Southern 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
16	Red 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
17	Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys Temminckii)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 60-70 years Size: 30 inches Weight: 220 pounds
18	Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 50 years Size: 19 inches Weight: 40 pounds
19	Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone Mutica)	Type: Mud turtle Lifespan: 10 to 20 years Size: Males: 4 – 7 inches, Females: 7 – 12+ inches Weight: 40+ pounds
20	Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone Spinifera)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 40+ years Size: 8 – 20+ inches Weight: 25 pounds
21	Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus Polyphemus)	Type: Terrestrial tortoise Lifespan: 80 years Size: 15 inches Weight: 15 pounds
22	Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia Mydas)	Type: Marine turtle Lifespan: 80 years Size: 5 feet Weight: 400 pounds
23	Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys Imbricata)	Type: Marine turtle Lifespan: 30-50 years Size: 24-35 inches Weight: 88-110 pounds
24	Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 20-30 years Size: 30 inches Weight: 110 pounds
25	Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys Coriacea)	Type: Marine turtle Lifespan: 45 years Size: 6.7 feet Weight: 2,000 pounds
26	Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta Caretta)	Type: Sea turtle Lifespan: 40-50 years Size: 3-3.5 ft Weight: 220-355 pounds

26 Turtles You Can Find in Louisiana

In total, there are 26 species of turtles in the state of Louisiana. 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. Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene Ornata Ornata)

Have you ever wondered what kind of magical creature might be lurking in the forests and wetlands of Louisiana? Well, say hello to the Ornate Box Turtle! This amazing animal is closely related to its box turtle cousins, but it can also be identified by its intricate patterned shell – hence its name.

With a small head and body covered in an ornately patterned carapace or upper shell that’s usually brown with yellowish-orange markings, these turtles stand out from the crowd.

It spends most of its time hiding under cover while searching for food such as snails and insects, often seen out on warm summer days. So next time you take a walk through Louisiana, keep your eyes open for the Ornate Box Turtle – after all, who knows what else might be living there!

2. Three-toed Box Turtle (Terrapene Carolina Triunguis)

This remarkable reptile inhabits deciduous forests, grasslands, and wetlands across parts of the eastern and central United States including Louisiana.

Its average length is 4.5 to 5.5 inches while its weight averages between 0.5 to 1 pound with no size or gender differences seen in adults. Although they are mild by nature, these reptiles need proper care and maintenance if kept as pets – some states like Florida have even put restrictions on owning them as a pet!

Fortunately, their strong shells protect them from predators like snakes, raccoons, and skunks; however human activities such as habitat destruction have resulted in this species being listed as a special concern in some states due to the loss of habitats.

3. Chicken Turtle (Deirochelys Reticularia)

The Chicken Turtle is a beautiful species of freshwater turtle native to wetlands, rivers and ponds across much of the Eastern United States. These turtles may reach up to 9 inches in length when fully grown, with no distinction between male and female sizes; they can weigh up to 2 pounds. They have a lifespan of up to 40 years and are mildy aggressive, biting if threatened or provoked.

Chicken Turtles have distinctive markings on their shells; the plastron may be cream colored while the carapace has yellow spots with brown or black borders outlined in white.

Although they do not suffer from endangerment as such, these turtles are listed as species of special concern in some states including Louisiana. Given proper care and attention this species can thrive as pets but require large enclosures for basking purposes along with specialized diet for optimal health that should include live food like worms or other bugs.

The Chicken Turtle is an excellent swimmer due its long feet and webbed toes which allow it to stay underwater for longer periods of time than many other turtle species.

4. Eastern River Cooter (Pseudemys Concinna)

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 Louisiana. 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 Louisiana.

5. Mississippi Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys Terrapin pileata)

The Mississippi Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin pileata) is a species of turtle native to the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States, including Louisiana.

These turtles are known for their distinct diamond-shaped shell pattern, with males averaging 5.5 inches in size and females reaching up to 11 inches. Weighing an average of 11 ounces for males, and 18 ounces for females, these long-lived reptiles can live up to 20-30 years in the wild.

Unlike many other terrestrial species, Mississippi Diamondback Terrapins have adapted to life in both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. They are excellent swimmers with webbed feet and can be found in salt or brackish water habitats such as coastal marshes and estuaries. Though rarely aggressive towards humans, they should still be respected if encountered in nature due to their vulnerable status according to IUCN standards.

Unfortunately, Mississippi Diamondback Terrapins are threatened due to habitat loss and collection for the pet trade. In addition, eggs and hatchlings become easy targets for predators such as skunks or raccoons.

Despite not typically being kept as pets, they require proper care if taken into captivity – from providing a balanced diet to ensuring a clean environment free from disease or infection risks such as shell rot or respiratory infections due to poor ventilation.

This majestic species can be found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States – including North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, parts of Arkansas, Tennessee, and the Carolinas – making it a beautiful sight when visiting Louisiana.

6. Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys Pseudogeographica Kohnii)

The Mississippi Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica kohnii) is a unique freshwater turtle native to the Mississippi River Basin. They can be found in large rivers, lakes, and swamps with mud or sandy bottoms and plenty of aquatic vegetation.

Males typically reach 5-7 inches in length, while females can grow up to 8-12 inches. The males generally weigh 200-400 grams, and females can weigh up to 1 kilogram. Although they are not aggressive towards humans and rarely bite, it is important to observe them from a respectful distance if spotted in their natural environment – particularly around Louisiana where they inhabit.

Mississippi Map Turtles are sometimes kept as pets but require proper care and housing if taken into captivity. Inadequate nutrition, poor ventilation or unclean environments may cause respiratory infections or shell rot.

Since they spend much of their time in the water, they have webbed feet in order to swim quickly and dive deep when necessary. Unfortunately, populations in some areas are declining due to habitat destruction and over-collection for the pet trade despite them not being listed as an endangered species.

In addition to the Mississippi River Basin itself, these fascinating creatures have also been observed throughout Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky – and possibly Alabama, Indiana and Ohio as well! If you find yourself exploring Louisiana, keep your eyes open for this stunning species – you might just get lucky!

7. Ouachita Map Turtle (Graptemys Ouachitensis)

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 Louisiana 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!

8. Pearl River Map Turtle (Graptemys Pearlensis)

Greeting from Louisiana! Travelling here we find the majestic Pearl River Map Turtle, an aquatic reptile that calls this river system home. These turtles have a carapace length of up to 12 inches for females and 6 inches for males and can live in the wild for up to 30 years.

Shy creatures by nature, these turtles do not often bite humans but do have predators such as birds of prey or raccoons. As they are protected species in their native range, it is recommended against keeping them as pets – be sure to check your local regulations before acquiring one!

Lastly, due to habitat loss and illegal collecting Pearl River Map Turtles are considered threatened so please respect their environment when you spot them around here. These turtles rely on the habitat of the Pearl River, and any disturbance or pollution can have a lasting impact on their population. It is essential to be mindful of the impact we have on their environment and take steps to protect it. Additionally, for those who keep Pearl River Map Turtles as pets, it is important to use appropriate turtle tank filters to maintain a clean and healthy habitat for them. By taking these actions, we can help ensure the continued survival of this threatened species.

9. Ringed Map Turtle (Graptemys Oculifera)

The Ringed Map Turtle, Graptemys Ouachitensis, is an incredible reptile found in Louisiana. Growing up to 9-12 inches long for females and 4-7 inches long for males, these turtles can live between 20 – 40 years when cared for properly.

Unlike many of its aquatic relatives, the Ringed Map Turtle is a relatively docile creature with low aggression towards humans; making them desirable as pets. However it’s illegal to keep this species as a pet in some states hence potential owners should always check the laws regarding their procurement first.

Found primarily in rivers, lakes and ponds they have adapted superbly to aquatic environments and thanks to their resilience they are far from endangered yet still threatened by human activities such as habitat loss. By ensuring that we do our part in respecting their habitats we can allow future generations to marvel at these majestic creatures!

10. Sabine Map Turtle (Graptemys Ouachitensis)

The Sabine Map Turtle (Graptemys Sabinensis) is a species of aquatic turtle found in Louisiana and other parts of the US. This remarkable creature has an impressive lifespan that can reach up to 20 years, with an average carapace length between 4-8 inches.

Males and females have no significant differences in size, yet both sexes require special care when kept by humans as pets.

Adapted to life underwater, these turtles have webbed feet for swimming and a streamlined carapace aiding them move swiftly around their slow rivers, streams and oxbow lakes they inhabit. Whilst adults have few predators, eggs and hatchlings remain vulnerable to predation from raccoons, birds or any other local predator.

As such the Sabine Map Turtle is currently listed as a species of special concern in Louisiana where all commercial exploitation is strictly prohibited protecting this unique turtle ensuring generations will continue to thrive for years too come!

11. Mississippi Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Subrubrum)

The Mississippi Mud Turtle that inhabits Louisiana is a semi-aquatic turtle found near a variety of slow-moving water bodies such as swamps, ponds, and ditches. They can weigh anywhere between 10 to 35 pounds and live up to 20+ years in the wild if they manage to dodge any human-introduced danger.

It has an amazing defense mechanism: its strong shell allows it to protect itself from potential predators in their natural environment, while their salmonella carrier status makes handling them not recommended! While they can be kept as pets, proper care must be taken as they’re prone to some diseases like Vitamin A deficiency, respiratory diseases, abscesses and more.

With conservation efforts, future generations will get the chance to marvel over this magnificent reptile living harmoniously within nature.

12. Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Odoratus)

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 Louisiana. 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 Louisiana.

13. Razor-backed Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Carinatus)

The Razor-backed Musk Turtle (Sternotherus carinatus) is a unique species of reptile found across Louisiana. This small but powerful creature can reach up to 5-7 inches in length, with males being smaller than females.

It has webbed feet and the ability to hold its breath for long periods, making it well suited to life in freshwater rivers, swamps and streams.

Though mildly aggressive, it rarely bites humans if feeling threatened. Unfortunately wild populations have been impacted by habitat loss and hunting so we must respect their natural habitats if we want them to survive for generations more to come! Let’s make sure this remarkable animal continues thriving in Louisiana.

14. Stripe-necked Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Minor peltifer)

The Stripe-necked Musk Turtle is a unique species found in freshwater environments such as slow-moving streams, ponds, swamps, and other habitats. These turtles typically range from 4 to 6 inches long and can live up to 25 years when given the right care and environment.

They have webbed feet for swimming which gives them a streamlined shape that makes it easy for them to move through the water quickly – an adaptation that proves useful against predators like raccoons or herons!

These docile creatures make great companions when kept as pets but you must check Louisiana’s specific laws before doing so.

Even though not all populations of these amazing animals are endangered yet, their numbers have been declining across Louisiana due to rapid habitat loss or exploitation – something we should pay close attention to if we wish to ensure this special creature has a secure future ahead!

15. Southern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)

The Southern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys Picta) is one of the most recognizably patterned freshwater turtles native to Louisiana. 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!

16. Red Eared Slider (Trachemys Scripta Elegans)

The Red Eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) is a freshwater reptile with a striking appearance. Found in Louisiana’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!

17. Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys Temminckii)

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 Louisiana, 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.

18. Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)

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 Louisiana.

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 Louisiana when considering owning one of these remarkable creatures as a pet.

19. Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone Mutica)

The Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica), is an aquatic species of turtle found across parts of the United States, including Louisiana, 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!

20. Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone Spinifera)

The Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone Spinifera) is a species of freshwater turtle found in the rivers, streams and lakes across Louisiana. 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.

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

21. Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus Polyphemus)

The Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus Polyphemus) is a remarkable terrestrial species found across Louisiana. With an impressive lifespan of up to 80 years in captivity, adults measure up to 15 inches in length and can weigh around 10-15 pounds. Generally these creatures are quite docile and are not prone to aggression unless provoked or threatened by larger predators such as humans, armadillos, raccoons and birds of prey.

Habitually they live in dry sandy soils such as those found in longleaf pine forests, scrub areas, coastal dunes or rocky uplands. Sadly many states now consider this creature endangered due to their habitat being destroyed through human interference; meaning any attempts to keep these residents of Louisiana as a pet will often require special permits depending on where you live.

Nevertheless with the right care, these incredible animals may still be preserved for generations yet come! So let us commit ourselves towards protecting Gopher Tortoises today so that our future descendants may also have the opportunity witness their stunning beauty!

22. Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia Mydas)

Introducing the majestic Green Sea Turtle, an incredible species that inhabits tropical and subtropical coastal oceans in many parts of the world. These residents of Louisiana can reaching up to five feet in length and weigh around 400 pounds for females.

This marine turtle can live for about 80 years if left undisturbed by humans or predators such as birds, mammals, or large fish.

With flippers adapted for swimming and a streamlined body shape allowing it to hold its breath underwater for long periods at a time, they are highly adapted to navigating in their natural aquatic habitats.

Sadly enough though these creatures are endangered worldwide due to human actions which puts them at risk of extinction unless preventative steps are taken soon. Let’s strive towards preserving its population so future generations can witness Louisiana’s coastlines come alive with the beauty of these magnificent animals!

23. Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys Imbricata)

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys Imbricata) is an incredible species of marine turtle, native to tropical and subtropical oceans around the world. These beautiful creatures can grow up to 35 inches in carapace length and weigh up to 110 pounds. They are known for their unique beak-like snout which has given them their distinctive name ‘Hawksbill’.

Despite being highly adapted for life underwater, with powerful flippers perfect for swimming and the ability to hold its breath for long periods of time, these turtles face numerous threats from human activities such as hunting, poaching beach destruction and pollution. As a consequence they are classified as endangered by IUCN – The International Union for Conservation of Nature – making it illegal to own one as a pet in many states and countries.

Unfortunately populations have decreased drastically over recent decades due mainly to these pressures but also increasingly due climate change related events such as rising sea levels affecting nesting sites.

We must act now if we want future generations in Louisiana to be able observe this amazing species living peacefully in its natural habitat!

24. Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)

The Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle is an aquatic reptile native to the southeastern United States, most commonly found in states such as Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. These majestic creatures that call Louisiana their home have a long and impressive lifespan of up to 20-30 years with adults reaching up to 30 inches in length and 110 pounds in weight, with males being slightly smaller than females.

The Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle has adapted perfectly for life underwater; aquatically equipped with webbed feet and able to hold their breath for extended periods of time allowing them to outswim most danger. The webbing on its feet provides an immensely powerful swimming technique whilst their streamlined bodies provide amazing agility beneath the waves.

Their carapace is a beautiful olive green colour that blends into the environment perfectly, so they can go unnoticed when needed. This species also has no specific predators apart from raccoons, otters and large fish seeking them out as food, which makes them quite a safe species compared to other turtles living closer to shorelines.

Unfortunately they are listed as vulnerable due to their low population size; this is mainly caused by humans polluting our oceans and destroying their natural habitat. It’s important that we work together now to preserve our planet’s natural ecosystems so future generations can appreciate its beauty here in Louisiana. This is especially true of this beautiful Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle so it may yet be enjoyed long into the future!

25. Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys Coriacea)

The Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys Coriacea) is one of the most remarkable creatures you can find in the depths of ocean. This majestic creature, also known as simply Leatherback Turtle, has adapted to life at sea by having a streamlined body and flippers that give it an immense advantage for swimming long distances.

It has been known to reach up to 6.7 feet in length and its size can weigh up to 2,000 pounds; thus making this resident of Louisiana one of the largest reptiles on Earth!

This species lives mainly in open ocean habitats with warmer regions such as those around the coasts of California, Florida or Mexico but sometimes ventures near-shore areas looking for food or breeding grounds.

Unfortunately due to human activities like hunting them for their valuable shells or accidental catches while fishing these animals have been classified as endangered (IUCN Red List). We must therefore work together now and take action if we want this species preserved so future generations can enjoy its beauty here in Louisiana.

26. Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta Caretta)

The Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta) is a remarkable species found in the coastal waters, bays, and estuaries of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of the United States, as well as in the Gulf of Mexico. This semi-aquatic creature that roams our state of Louisiana has a unique adaptation – its carapace (top shell) is patterned like the skin of a shark, allowing it to blend perfectly with its environment. A fully grown adult can reach up to 3-3.5 ft in length and weigh up to 400 pounds, though there is virtually no size difference between males and females.

Loggerhead Sea Turtles are highly adapted to their aquatic lifestyle, with webbed feet for navigation and long claws for catching their prey such as insects, snails or fish. They can also hold their breath for extended periods of time and have a specialized streamlined body shape which helps reduce drag while swimming.

Unfortunately, due to destruction of its wetland habitats and other human activities, population declines have been reported in some areas; therefore this species is classified as vulnerable by the IUCN and protected under the Endangered Species Act. So it is important that local authorities be consulted before owning one as they cannot be kept as pets due to their specialized habitat requirements.

Living up to 40-50 years in the wild these gentle creatures rarely show aggression towards humans but should still be respected with caution since they are vulnerable to predation from marine mammals such as sharks or birds and crabs when young.

Final Words

In the state of Louisiana—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 Louisiana 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 Louisiana.

Other Nearby States:

• Turtles In Texas
• Turtles In Arkansas
• Turtles In Mississippi

Resources:

• Sea Turtles in Louisiana’s Coastal Waters
• Loggerhead Turtle | NOAA Fisheries
• Turtles of Missouri | Missouri’s Natural Heritage
• Movements and Habitat Use of Subadult Alligator …