The Surprising Habits of 21 Turtles in Maryland

Maryland is home to a diverse array of native turtles, with 18 species inhabiting the state’s land and water. In addition, three introduced or naturalized turtle species can also be found in Maryland.

Of these 21 species, four are commonly encountered on roadsides: Eastern box turtles, snapping turtles, painted turtles and red-eared sliders. Diamondback terrapins – which have been designated as Maryland’s official state reptile – may also be spotted along coastal regions.

This article will provide an overview of the various turtle species that can be found in Maryland and their behaviors when confronted with roadways.

#	Name	Details	Image
1	Bog Turtle	Type: Terrestrial turtle Lifespan: 20-30 years Size: 4-5 inches Weight: 1-2 pounds
2	Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys Terrapin)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 20 years Size: 11 inches Weight: Male: 11 ounces, females: 18 ounces
3	Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene Carolina)	Type: Terrestrial turtle Lifespan: 60 years Size: 4-10 inches Weight: Male: 1 pounds, females: 2 pounds
4	Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Subrubrum)	Type: Mud turtle Lifespan: 30 years Size: 5 inches Weight: 9.27 ounces
5	Striped Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Baurii)	Type: Semi-aquatic turtle Lifespan: 20-25 years Size: 4-5 inches Weight: 1-2 pounds
6	Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Odoratus)	Type: Terrestrial and aquatic turtle Lifespan: 10-20 years Size: 4-8 inches Weight: 0.7 pounds
7	Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys Geographica)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 20+ years Size: Males: Can reach up to 6 inches, Females: Can reach up to 10 inches Weight: Males: 150-400 gm, Females: 1.5-5.5 pounds
8	Northern Red-Bellied Cooter (Pseudemys Rubriventris)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: Can live up to 50 years Size: 10 to 13.5 inches Weight: 12+ pounds
9	Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 20 – 30 years Size: Males: Can reach up to 5.5 – 6 inches, Females: 5 – 10 inches Weight: Males: roughly 300 gm, Females: on avg 500 gm
10	Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 50 years Size: 19 inches Weight: 40 pounds
11	Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone Spinifera)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 40+ years Size: 8 – 20+ inches Weight: 25 pounds
12	Spotted Turtle (Clemmys Guttata)	Type: Semi-Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 60 – 100+ years Size: 4 – 5 inches Weight: 0.5 to 1 pound
13	Wood Turtle (Glyptemys Insculpta)	Type: Semi-aquatic turtle Lifespan: 12+ years Size: 6 to 10 inches Weight: 0.5 – 2 pounds
14	False 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
15	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
16	Yellow-bellied Slider (Trachemys Scripta Scripta)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 20-30 year Size: 8 – 12 inches Weight: Up to 3 pounds
17	Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia Mydas)	Type: Marine turtle Lifespan: 80 years Size: 5 feet Weight: 400 pounds
18	Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys Imbricata)	Type: Marine turtle Lifespan: 30-50 years Size: 24-35 inches Weight: 88-110 pounds
19	Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 20-30 years Size: 30 inches Weight: 110 pounds
20	Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys Coriacea)	Type: Marine turtle Lifespan: 45 years Size: 6.7 feet Weight: 2,000 pounds
21	Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta Caretta)	Type: Sea turtle Lifespan: 40-50 years Size: 3-3.5 ft Weight: 220-355 pounds

What Are the Best Substrates for Turtles in Their Tank?

When it comes to creating a comfortable habitat for your pet turtles, choosing the right substrate is crucial. Some of the best substrates for turtles in their tank include turtle tank sand, as it provides a natural look and allows turtles to dig and bury themselves, promoting natural behaviors.

21 Turtles You Can Find in Maryland

In total, there are 21 species of turtles in the state of Maryland. 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. Bog Turtle

The Bog Turtle, or Glyptemys muhlenbergii, is a critically endangered species of turtle native to wetlands, bogs, and swamps in the Northeastern and north-central United States. With a carapace length of 4-5 inches and weighing around 1-2 pounds, there is no size variation between male and female Bog Turtles. They have a lifespan of 20-30 years.

Skunks, raccoons, foxes and humans are the main predators of these turtles as juveniles are highly vulnerable due to their small size. Unfortunately, they also face threats from exploitation for the pet trade—it is illegal to remove them from the wild and possess them without a permit in most states. Bog Turtles are not commonly kept as pets as they require special environments to thrive in captivity. In addition, these turtles tend to be mildly aggressive and may bite if threatened.

Bog Turtles are not well adapted to aquatic life; instead they prefer warm humid climates like those found in Maryland. As such they face massive habitat destruction due to urbanization which has led to their listing as an Endangered Species by the Endangered Species Act in several states including New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont.

To help protect this species it is important for conservation efforts to continue in Maryland so that healthy ecosystems can be maintained throughout its range. Moreover, educational initiatives need to be established that inform people about the importance of protecting Bog Turtles before their population further declines due to the illegal collection for the pet trade and habitat loss.

2. Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys Terrapin)

The Diamondback Terrapin, native to the brackish waterways of the Atlantic and Gulf coasts in states such as Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana and Alabama is a species worth noting.

With lifespans up to 20 years and adult sizes ranging from 8-9 inches in length with some reaching 11 inches this turtle is not one to be missed. Despite its mild aggression when threatened due to predators such as raccoons and otters it still belongs here in Maryland.

However it is important if you are considering owning one as a pet that you check local laws first as regulations do vary state by state. Although they are well adapted to their brackish water environments they can be prone diseases like shell rot or respiratory infections so special care needs must be taken when kept captive.

Habitat loss or harvest for commercial trade have caused vulnerability in the species which makes them vulnerable to extinction -so please enjoy these remarkable creatures responsibly here at Maryland.

3. Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene Carolina)

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 Maryland. 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 Maryland. It is essential that we take steps to protect this species which calls Maryland home by preserving their natural habitats as well as improving public awareness of their plight!

4. Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Subrubrum)

The Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum) is a small freshwater turtle found in the southeastern United States, including Maryland. 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 Maryland . 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!

5. Striped Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Baurii)

Have you ever heard of the Striped Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Baurii)? This amazing creature is found in states such as Florida, Georgia, Alabama and Texas but can also be kept as a pet in some places – though it’s important to check Maryland’s specific laws first.

Despite their small size they boast an impressive bite force and are surprisingly agile underwater! What’s even better is that they have no known disease carriers associated with them making them safe pets for owners and other animals alike.

But what does the future hold for these fascinating creatures? While not all populations of Striped Mud Turtles are endangered yet, their numbers have been declining across Maryland, due to habitat loss or exploitation – giving us cause for concern on this special animal’s future prospects.

6. 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 Maryland. 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 Maryland.

7. Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys Geographica)

The Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica) is a species of aquatic turtle native to the rivers, streams and large ponds in the northern United States. They can reach up to 10 inches in carapace length with male size being smaller than female. Adults don’t have many natural predators but juveniles are preyed upon by birds, mammals and larger fish.

These strong swimmers have an excellent carapace for protection from danger and they can live up to 20-25 years if properly cared for! Given their beautiful markings, it’s no surprise that these turtles are becoming increasingly popular as pets – just remember they must be treated with care and may require permits depending on the state, including Maryland. They’re also prone to respiratory infections when kept in captivity so it’s important to monitor them closely.

Luckily, this majestic species isn’t endangered yet – though population numbers may be decreasing rapidly in certain areas. The Northern Map Turtles can are easily found living around Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin among other US states!

8. Northern Red-Bellied Cooter (Pseudemys Rubriventris)

This one is an aquatic turtle native to rivers, swamps, and large ponds in the eastern United States. They reach an average length of 8 to 11 inches with adult males being slightly smaller than females.

These turtles may be kept as pets but require a large aquarium due to their size. Despite their small appearance they are not regarded as aggressive animals so there’s no need for fear if you come across one near Maryland, simply observe from a respectable distance!

Of course taking them home without permits or licenses is highly illegal – something I’m sure any red-blooded American would know already!

9. Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)

Have you ever wanted to own a beautiful and unique pet? The Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta) may just be the perfect fit for you!

Native to North America, this semi-aquatic reptile lives in Maryland’s rivers, lakes, marshes and ponds. The carapace length of these turtles ranges from 4-10 inches long with females being larger than males.

With proper care and clean living conditions, they have an average lifespan of 20-30 years – making them great companion animals for your family or even as solo pets. Just make sure to check what regulations there are in Maryland so that you can give your pet painted turtle the best life possible!

10. 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 Maryland.

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

11. 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 Maryland. 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!

12. Spotted Turtle (Clemmys Guttata)

Introducing the Spotted Turtle (Clemmys Guttata)! This small, terrestrial and aquatic turtle is native to the eastern United States from Maine down to Maryland. Adults grow up to 4-5 inches in carapace length, with a weight ranging between half a pound and one pound. Juveniles can measure between 1-3 inches when they hatch.

These animals are quite hardy creatures who generally live peaceably amongst their own kind; however, under threat they may become somewhat aggressive. There are several predators that hunt them such as raccoons, skunks, snakes and birds of prey in this area.

Despite being only mildly domesticated creatures it is possible for these turtles to be kept as pets with specialized care. Prone illnesses include respiratory infections and shell rot – but fortunately this species does not act as a disease carrier itself!

13. Wood Turtle (Glyptemys Insculpta)

The wood turtle (Glyptemys insculpta) is a semi-aquatic species of reptile native to Eastern North America, ranging from Nova Scotia to West Virginia. It is distinguishable by its dark coloring, with yellowish and orange markings across the shell that can even become brighter in the sun.

Typically measuring between 6 – 10 inches and weighing half a pound up to two pounds, the wood turtle that inhabits Maryland is both an impressive sight and hardy survivor.

Found mainly near forests where it spends winters asleep in streams, these turtles often venture into grasslands or sandy shores for food during the spring months. Wood turtles aren’t typically aggressive but must still beware as raccoons, coyotes and foxes are among their predators. They even possess a powerful bite force that allows them to break through shells!

14. False Map Turtle (Graptemys Pseudogeographica)

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 Maryland before populations decline further due to habitat loss or collection for the pet trade!

15. Red Eared Slider (Trachemys Scripta Elegans)

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

16. Yellow-bellied Slider (Trachemys Scripta Scripta)

Native to the southeastern United States from Florida to Virginia, the Yellow-bellied Slider (Trachemys Scripta Scripta) is a freshwater turtle. These beautifully patterned creatures have yellow shells with black patches around each scute as well as bright yellow bellies, giving them their name. They can measure up to 12 inches long and weigh up to 3 pounds.

In Maryland, these turtles are found in low-moving rivers, floodplain swamps, marshes, seasonal wetlands and permanent ponds . In the wild they usually lead solitary lives and do not show aggression towards other animals unless kept in pairs when some competition may arise over certain mates.

Sadly raccoons (Procyon lotor) and humans are major threats for these vulnerable reptiles due to disturbance of their habitats or hunting them down for food or sport; juveniles also face even more trouble since they’s likely be eaten by large fish, some snakes, raccoons and wading birds if left unprotected! Conservation efforts need to be increased so that this majestic species will continue inhabiting our planet far into future generations!

17. 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 Maryland 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 Maryland’s coastlines come alive with the beauty of these magnificent animals!

18. 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 Maryland to be able observe this amazing species living peacefully in its natural habitat!

19. 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 Maryland 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 Maryland. This is especially true of this beautiful Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle so it may yet be enjoyed long into the future!

20. 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 Maryland 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 Maryland.

21. 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 Maryland 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 Maryland—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 Maryland 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 Maryland.

Other Nearby States:

• Turtles In Virginia
• Turtles In West Virginia
• Turtles In Delaware
• Turtles In Pennsylvania

Resources:

• Behavior and ecology of sea turtles from Chesapeake Bay, …
• Movements and behavior of wild and head-started sea turtles
• 11018686.pdf
• Eastern Box Turtle Diets in the Long Island Pine Barrens