The Mysterious Ways of 7 Turtles in South Dakota
Turtles are often thought of as slow, methodical creatures. But in South Dakota, these seven species from three different families show that turtles can be found in a variety of habitats and regions across the state. Snapping Turtles, Painted Turtles, and Blanding’s Turtles are just some of the many turtle species that call South Dakota home.
So whether you’re looking for a slow-moving creature to watch or a new addition to your family, consider one of these seven turtles the next time you’re in South Dakota!
| # | Name | Details | Image |
| 1 | Blanding Turtle (Emydoidea Blandingii) |
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| 2 | Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) |
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| 3 | False Map Turtle (Graptemys Pseudogeographica) |
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| 4 | Midland Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica mutica) |
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| 5 | Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene Ornata Ornata) |
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| 6 | Western Painted Turtle |
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| 7 | Western Spiny Softshell (Apalone Spinifera) |
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7 Turtles You Can Find in South Dakota
In total, there are 7 species of turtles in the state of South Dakota. 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
Fully-Grown Blanding Turtle
Blanding Turtle Hatchling
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 South Dakota 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 South Dakota 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. 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
Fully-Grown Common Snapping Turtle
Common Snapping Turtle Hatchling
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 South Dakota.
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 South Dakota when considering owning one of these remarkable creatures as a pet.
3. 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
Fully-Grown False Map Turtle
False Map Turtle Hatchling
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 South Dakota before populations decline further due to habitat loss or collection for the pet trade!
4. Midland Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica mutica)
- Family: Trionychidae
- Genus: Apalone
- Type: Freshwater turtle
- Natural Habitat: Slow-moving streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds in the midwestern and southeastern united states
- Lifespan: 25-30 years
- Maximum Size: 10 inches
- Prone to Diseases: Shell rot and respiratory infections
- Aggression Level: Mild, non-aggressive species
- Predators: Alligators, large fish, and snapping turtles
- Domestication: Can be kept in captivity
Fully-Grown Midland Smooth Softshell Turtle
Midland Smooth Softshell Turtle Hatchling
Fully-Grown Midland Smooth Softshell Turtle
Native to the midwestern and southeastern United States, including South Dakota, the Midland Smooth Softshell Turtle (Apalone mutica mutica) is a majestic freshwater species.
With adults typically reaching 7-8 inches in length and some individuals even reaching up to 10 inches, these turtles weigh an average of 1-4 pounds with no significant size variations between males and females. They can be found in slow-moving streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds and display mild, non-aggressive behavior.
Despite not being commonly kept as pets, if taken into captivity they require proper care such as providing a balanced diet and a clean environment. Furthermore, they may be vulnerable to shell rot and respiratory infections if kept in unclean or poorly ventilated environments. Predation from alligators, large fish, birds of prey or raccoons may occur whilst eggs and hatchlings are prone to predation from skunks or other predators.
Although not currently listed as endangered by IUCN standards – populations of Midland Smooth Softshell Turtles may be declining due to habitat loss and collection for the pet trade.
These aquatic creatures are also found in Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri , Mississippi , Ohio , Oklahoma , Tennessee ,and Texas. Respectful caution should also be taken when spotting a Midland Smooth Softshell Turtle since although rarely aggressive towards humans – they are still considered vulnerable according to IUCN standards and hence should not be disturbed needlessly even if encountered in nature during your visit at South Dakota.
5. Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene Ornata Ornata)
- Family: Emydidae
- Genus: Terrapene
- Type: Terrestrial turtle
- Natural Habitat: Open landscapes such as pastures, prairies, and lightly forested areas
- Lifespan: 30 – 40 years
- Also Known As: Western box turtle
- Maximum Size: 4-5 inches
- Maximum Weight: 1-1.5 pounds
- Prone to Diseases: Vitamin deficiency, respiratory diseases
- Disease Carrier: Salmonella
- Aggression Level: Males display a tendency towards aggressive behavior, including biting and clashing their shells against each other
- Predators: Birds, such as crows, raptors, and ravens; domestic cats and dogs; opossums; raccoons; skunks; snakes; and even adult box turtles
- Domestication: Can be kept as pet
Fully-Grown Ornate Box Turtle
Ornate Box Turtle Hatchling
Fully-Grown Ornate Box Turtle
Have you ever wondered what kind of magical creature might be lurking in the forests and wetlands of South Dakota? 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 South Dakota, keep your eyes open for the Ornate Box Turtle – after all, who knows what else might be living there!
6. Western Painted Turtle
- 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
Fully-Grown Western Painted Turtle
Western Painted Turtle Hatchling
Fully-Grown Western Painted Turtle
The Western Painted Turtle, scientifically known as Chrysemys picta bellii, is an aquatic creature native to North America. It can be found in states such as South Dakota; making its way up right into British Columbia in Canada. Adults typically measure between 9-10 inches in length while juveniles/hatchlings are smaller at around 2-3 inches.
They live in freshwater habitats such as ponds, rivers and lakes where they swim with ease due to their long tails and streamlined shells of webbed feet. Although usually not aggressive creatures, they have predators that include raccoons and herons among others which make them a species of special concern in some regions.
In most US states it is legal to keep Western Painted Turtles as pets with proper care but one should always check local regulations for necessary requirements first.
7. Western Spiny Softshell (Apalone Spinifera)
- Family: Trionychidae
- Genus: Apalone
- Type: Freshwater turtle
- Natural Habitat: Freshwater turtle
- Lifespan: 40+ years
- Also Known As: Aspidonectes asper, apalone hudsonica, trionyx ater
- Maximum Size: Males: 5 – 10 inches, females: 8 – 20 inches
- Maximum Weight: 20 – 26 lbs
- Disease Carrier: Salmonella
- Predators: Otters, large fish, raccoons, crows, alligators, bald eagles, fire ants, water snakes and foxes
- Domestication: Can’t be pet
Fully-Grown Western Spiny Softshell
Western Spiny Softshell Hatchling
Fully-Grown Western Spiny Softshell
Have you ever heard of the Western Spiny Softshell? This unique freshwater turtle is found in states like South Dakota. It can measure up to 10 inches long for males and 20 inches for females, weighing around 20 to 26 pounds!
This species bears a uniquely patterned carapace which wears off as they age resulting in a dull brownish or olive-green color. Its spines make it quite distinct from other turtles that inhabit its habitat. They are solitary creatures with minimal interaction amongst themselves unless competing for mates when kept together in captivity.
Sadly, their vulnerability makes them an easy target for predators like otters, large fish, raccoons and crows who prey upon these majestic creatures that so many people admire! That’s why conservation efforts are important to protect their delicate habitats so generations can continue enjoying them now and far into the future.
Final Words
In the state of South Dakota—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 South Dakota 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 South Dakota.
Other Nearby States:
- Turtles In Nebraska
- Turtles In North Dakota
- Turtles In Wyoming
- Turtles In Iowa
- Turtles In Minnesota
- Turtles In Montana
