Turtles in Massachusetts

The Hidden Treasures of 11 Turtles in Massachusetts

Turtles are an integral part of the ecosystem and Massachusetts is home to 11 species of turtles, both native and non-native. Of these 10 native terrestrial and aquatic species, six have been listed as endangered under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA).

In addition to this, there is one widely distributed introduced (non-native) turtle species living in the state.

This article will provide information about turtles in Maryland, their habitats, conservation efforts for them and much more.

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1Blanding Turtle (Emydoidea Blandingii)
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Lifespan: 20-30 years
  • Size: 8-10 inches in carapace length
  • Weight: 1-2 pounds
Adult Blanding Turtle
2Bog Turtle
  • Type: Terrestrial turtle
  • Lifespan: 20-30 years
  • Size: 4-5 inches
  • Weight: 1-2 pounds
Adult Bog Turtle
3Northern Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin terrapin)
  • Type: Aquatic turtle
  • Lifespan: 25 – 40 years
  • Size: Males: 4 – 5.5 inches, Females: 6 – 9 inches
  • Weight: Males: 0.5 pounds, Females: 1.5 pounds
Adult Northern Diamondback Terrapin
4Eastern 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
5Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Odoratus)
  • Type: Semi-aquatic turtle
  • Lifespan: 20 to 30 years
  • Size: 5.5 inches
  • Weight: 11.22 ounces
Adult Eastern Musk Turtle
6Northern Red-Bellied Cooter (Pseudemys Rubriventris)
  • Type: Aquatic turtle
  • Lifespan: Can live up to 50 years
  • Size: 10 to 13.5 inches
  • Weight: 12+ pounds
Adult Northern Red-Bellied Cooter
7Eastern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys Picta)
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Lifespan: 40 years
  • Size: 7-10 inches
  • Weight: 21 ounces
Adult Eastern Painted Turtle
8Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Lifespan: 50 years
  • Size: 19 inches
  • Weight: 40 pounds
Adult Common Snapping Turtle
9Spotted Turtle (Clemmys Guttata)
  • Type: Semi-Aquatic turtle
  • Lifespan: 60 – 100+ years
  • Size: 4 – 5 inches
  • Weight: 0.5 to 1 pound
Adult Spotted Turtle
10North American Wood Turtle (Glyptemys Insculpta)
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Lifespan: Over 50 years
  • Weight: 1.5 – 2.5 pounds
Adult North American Wood Turtle
11Red 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

11 Turtles You Can Find in Massachusetts

In total, there are 11 species of turtles in the state of Massachusetts. 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. Blanding Turtle (Emydoidea Blandingii)

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Emydoidea
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Marshes, swamps, ponds, and slow-moving streams in eastern north america
  • Lifespan: 20-30 years
  • Maximum Size: 8-10 inches in carapace length
  • Maximum Weight: 1-2 pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Shell rot, respiratory infections, and skin infections
  • Aggression Level: Mild
  • Predators: Juveniles and eggs – raccoons, skunks, and birds; adults – large fish and otters
  • Domestication: Not suitable as pets
Adult Blanding Turtle

Fully-Grown Blanding Turtle

Blanding Turtle Babies

Blanding Turtle Hatchling

Adult Blanding Turtle

Fully-Grown Blanding Turtle

Native to the marshes, swamps, ponds, and slow-moving streams of Eastern North America, the Blanding Turtle (Emydoidea Blandingii) is a freshwater turtle. Adults measure 8-10 inches in carapace length, and weigh around 1-2 pounds, with little variation between male and female sizes.

These turtles are mild and usually not aggressive, though juveniles and eggs can be preyed on by raccoons, skunks, and birds. Adult Blanding Turtles in Massachusetts can be preyed on by large fish, otters, and humans.

Due to habitat loss and exploitation for the pet trade, these turtles are listed as a Species of Special Concern in some states including Maine, New York, Ohio, and Indiana. However, they are not suitable as pets as they require specialized habitats to thrive. Furthermore, if kept captive they can suffer from illnesses like shell rot or respiratory infections if not maintained properly.

Blanding Turtles are strong swimmers well adapted to life in the water. Conservation efforts should continue in the state of Massachusetts in order to protect this species which plays an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems within its range from Eastern North America.

Moreover, educational initiatives should be established to educate people about the significance of protecting these turtles before their population further declines.

2. Bog Turtle

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Glyptemys
  • Type: Terrestrial turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Wetlands, bogs, and swamps
  • Lifespan: 20-30 years
  • Maximum Size: 4-5 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 1-2 pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Parasites and fungal infections
  • Aggression Level: Mildly aggressive, may bite if threatened
  • Predators: Skunks, raccoons, and foxes
  • Domestication: Illegal to possess without permit in most states
Adult Bog Turtle

Fully-Grown Bog Turtle

Bog Turtle Babies

Bog Turtle Hatchling

Adult Bog Turtle

Fully-Grown 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.

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Bog Turtles are not well adapted to aquatic life; instead they prefer warm humid climates like those found in Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts 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.

3. Northern Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin terrapin)

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Malaclemys
  • Type: Aquatic turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Salt marshes, brackish water, estuaries, lagoons and tidal creeks along the coast
  • Lifespan: 25 – 40 years
  • Maximum Size: Males: 4 – 5.5 inches, females: 6 – 9 inches
  • Maximum Weight: Males: 0.5 pounds, females: 1.5 pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Shell rot
  • Aggression Level: Not aggressive
  • Predators: Skunks, raccoons, and foxes
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pets if purchased from a licensed captive turtle breeder
Adult Northern Diamondback Terrapin

Fully-Grown Northern Diamondback Terrapin

Northern Diamondback Terrapin Babies

Northern Diamondback Terrapin Hatchling

Adult Northern Diamondback Terrapin

Fully-Grown Northern Diamondback Terrapin

The Northern Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin terrapin) is an aquatic turtle native to the US coastal regions, ranging from Massachusetts to Florida and Louisiana to Texas. With an average lifespan of 15-20 years, these reptiles grow up to 18-23 cm in length for females and 12-15 cm for males, although weight information is not specified. Despite their small size, they are excellent swimmers and well adapted to live in brackish water environments like salt marshes or tidal creeks.

Although Northern Diamondback Terrapins are not aggressive towards humans or other animals, they may be preyed upon by raccoons, foxes, crows, gulls and skunks. Furthermore, overcollection for the pet trade has led to population decline in certain areas – resulting in their protected status in some states. As such it may be illegal to keep one as a pet without a permit.

These turtles aren’t picky eaters; they feed on both plant matter such as lettuce as well as animal proteins like insects or crayfish. So if you encounter one of these majestic creatures near Massachusetts, take the time to appreciate them from a respectful distance!

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

5. Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Odoratus)

  • Family: Kinosternidae
  • Genus: Sternotherus
  • Type: Semi-aquatic turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Freshwater habitats, including rivers, lakes, and swamps
  • Lifespan: 20 to 30 years
  • Maximum Size: 5.5 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 11.22 ounces
  • Prone to Diseases: Shell rot, respiratory infections, etc.
  • Aggression Level: Generally docile and not aggressive
  • Predators: Raccoons, skunks, and birds of prey
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pets
Adult Eastern Musk Turtle

Fully-Grown Eastern Musk Turtle

Eastern Musk Turtle Babies

Eastern Musk Turtle Hatchling

Adult Eastern Musk Turtle

Fully-Grown Eastern Musk Turtle

The Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus) is a semi-aquatic species of turtle found in many freshwater habitats across the southeastern United States, including states such as Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey.

These turtles are generally quite docile and not aggressive. They can reach a shell length of up to 5.5 inches with males being typically smaller than females and will weigh around 11.22 ounces when fully grown.

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These turtles are well adapted to life in the water thanks to their webbed feet which helps them to swim gracefully in their aquatic homes. They can even be kept as pets if you have the correct enclosure and diet set up for them; however regulations in Massachusetts may vary so double-check before taking on an Eastern Musk Turtle as a pet.

Eastern Musk Turtles prey on small invertebrates living close to the water’s surface or small fish from time to time; however they too are preyed upon by animals such as raccoons and birds of prey looking for an easy meal! If given proper care these turtles can live up to 30 years old although illnesses like shell rot or respiratory infections can occur if not cared for correctly.

It’s important that we take steps towards preserving their natural habitats and increasing public awareness about this species that calls Massachusetts home!

6. Northern Red-Bellied Cooter (Pseudemys Rubriventris)

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Pseudemys
  • Type: Aquatic turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Rivers, swamps, and large ponds in the eastern united states
  • Lifespan: Can live up to 50 years
  • Also Known As: Cooters
  • Maximum Size: 10 to 13.5 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 12+ pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Mucinous melanophoroma
  • Aggression Level: Not aggressive
  • Predators: Raccoons, humans
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pet
Adult Northern Red-Bellied Cooter

Fully-Grown Northern Red-Bellied Cooter

Northern Red-Bellied Cooter Babies

Northern Red-Bellied Cooter Hatchling

Adult Northern Red-Bellied Cooter

Fully-Grown Northern Red-Bellied Cooter

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 Massachusetts, 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!

7. Eastern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys Picta)

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Chrysemys
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Ponds, streams, lakes, and other aquatic habitats in eastern north america
  • Lifespan: 40 years
  • Maximum Size: 7-10 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 21 ounces
  • Prone to Diseases: Respiratory infections, shell rot, and other diseases
  • Aggression Level: Not aggressive towards humans
  • Predators: Foxes, raccoons, skunks, otters, and birds of prey
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pets
Adult Eastern Painted Turtle

Fully-Grown Eastern Painted Turtle

Eastern Painted Turtle Babies

Eastern Painted Turtle Hatchling

Adult Eastern Painted Turtle

Fully-Grown Eastern Painted Turtle

The Eastern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta) is one of the most beautiful freshwater turtles found in the eastern United States, including states such as Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Delaware, Maryland and Virginia. With their brightly coloured shells and striking markings adorning their bodies this species is certainly a sight to behold.

The Eastern Painted Turtle can reach a length of 7-10 inches with males usually smaller than females. They have a streamlined body and webbed feet which allow them to move through the water with ease making them perfectly adapted for life in aquatic habitats like ponds, streams and lakes. In the wild they can live up to 40 years but with proper care and diet they can live up to 20-30 years in captivity; making them an ideal pet option if you’re looking for a long term companion in Massachusetts.

These unique little creatures are definitely worth protecting here in Massachusetts so by taking steps towards preserving their natural habitats we can help ensure that these vibrant animals remain part of our environment for many years to come!

8. 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.

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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 Massachusetts.

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

9. Spotted Turtle (Clemmys Guttata)

  • Family: Emydinae rafinesque
  • Genus: Clemmys
  • Type: Semi-aquatic turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Marshy meadows, ponds, ditches, bogs, swamps, etc. as small bodies of still water.
  • Lifespan: 60 – 100+ years
  • Maximum Size: 4 – 5 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 0.5 to 1 pound
  • Prone to Diseases: Vitamin a deficiency, respiratory diseases, abscesses, shell infections and fractures, and parasites
  • Disease Carrier: Salmonella
  • Aggression Level: Coexisting is possible for spotted turtles, but housing male individuals together may lead to aggression.
  • Predators: Mammals, such as raccoons, muskrats, birds and large fishes.
  • Domestication: Can be kept as pets
Adult Spotted Turtle

Fully-Grown Spotted Turtle

Spotted Turtle Babies

Spotted Turtle Hatchling

Adult Spotted Turtle

Fully-Grown Spotted Turtle

Introducing the Spotted Turtle (Clemmys Guttata)! This small, terrestrial and aquatic turtle is native to the eastern United States from Maine down to Massachusetts. 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!

10. North American Wood Turtle (Glyptemys Insculpta)

  • Family: Emydidae
  • Genus: Glyptemys
  • Type: Freshwater turtle
  • Natural Habitat: Wetlands, hayfields, early successional habitats, riparian forests near rivers, and rivers or large streams.
  • Lifespan: Over 50 years
  • Maximum Weight: 1.5 – 2.5 pounds
  • Prone to Diseases: Glyptemys herpesvirus 2
  • Disease Carrier: Salmonella
Adult North American Wood Turtle

Fully-Grown North American Wood Turtle

North American Wood Turtle Babies

North American Wood Turtle Hatchling

Adult North American Wood Turtle

Fully-Grown North American Wood Turtle

The North American Wood Turtle found in Massachusetts is a freshwater turtle, with an average lifespan of over 50 years and weighing between 1.5 – 2.5 pounds. It can be seen all throughout Eastern Canada and the United States from Nova Scotia to Minnesota in the west, to Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland in the south.

This reptile prefers wetland habitats like hayfields and riparian forests near rivers or large streams – but beware if you’re considering handling one as they are known carriers of salmonella! They must also look out for Glyptemys herpesvirus 2 which could potentially harm them too.

Keeping conservation efforts successful will ensure this majestic animal remains living peacefully within its natural habitat for generations to come.

11. 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 Massachusetts’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!

Final Words

In the state of Massachusetts—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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts.

Other Nearby States:

What Are the Hidden Treasures of Turtles in New Mexico?

The amazing lives of New Mexico turtles are filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. These ancient creatures can be found in various habitats across the state, from rivers and lakes to desert oases. Their shells tell stories of resilience and adaptation, while their slow and steady ways reveal a world of patience and wisdom. Exploring the diverse species of turtles in New Mexico unveils a captivating world that is worthy of admiration and protection.

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