The Adventures of 25 Turtles in Virginia

Virginia is a beautiful state full of surprises, and one of the most interesting facts about it is its vast population of turtles. From 25 different species that call this place home to 5 sea turtle species that are often spotted near the shorelines, Virginia has become a haven for these shelled creatures.

But how did they get here? What type of habitats do they prefer? And what dangers do they face in their daily lives?

If you’re curious to find out more about turtles in Virginia, then read on! We’ll be exploring everything from their habitat preferences to the threats that put them at risk and even some fun facts about these fascinating reptiles. So grab your binoculars and let’s explore all things related to turtles in Virginia!

#	Name	Details	Image
1	Eastern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys Picta)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 40 years Size: 7-10 inches Weight: 21 ounces
2	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
3	Yellow-bellied Slider (Trachemys Scripta Scripta)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 20-30 year Size: 8 – 12 inches Weight: Up to 3 pounds
4	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
5	Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene Carolina)	Type: Terrestrial turtle Lifespan: 60 years Size: 4-10 inches Weight: Male: 1 pounds, females: 2 pounds
6	Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 50 years Size: 19 inches Weight: 40 pounds
7	Eastern Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone Spinifera)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 30 to 40 years Size: 18 inches Weight: 12 lbs
8	Spotted Turtle (Clemmys Guttata)	Type: Semi-Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 60 – 100+ years Size: 4 – 5 inches Weight: 0.5 to 1 pound
9	Eastern Chicken Turtle (Deirochelys Reticularia)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 30 years Size: 8 inches Weight: 2 pounds
10	Wood Turtle (Glyptemys Insculpta)	Type: Semi-aquatic turtle Lifespan: 12+ years Size: 6 to 10 inches Weight: 0.5 – 2 pounds
11	Bog Turtle	Type: Terrestrial turtle Lifespan: 20-30 years Size: 4-5 inches Weight: 1-2 pounds
12	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
13	Three Striped Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Baurii)	Type: Semi-aquatic turtle Lifespan: 50+ years Size: 3 – 15 inches Weight: 1 – 20 pounds, depending on habitat
14	Southeastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Subrubrum Subrubrum)	Type: Semi-aquatic Turtle Lifespan: 15 and 20+ years Size: Weight: 10 to 35 pounds
15	Northern 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
16	Eastern River Cooter (Pseudemys Concinna)	Type: Freshwater turtle Lifespan: 30 years Size: 11 inches Weight: 8 pounds
17	Coastal Plain Cooter (Pseudemys Floridana)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 30 years Size: 10-14 inches Weight: 7.7 pounds
18	Stripe-necked Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Minor peltifer)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 70+ years Size: 3 – 4 inches Weight: Barely gets 1 pound
19	Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Odoratus)	Type: Semi-aquatic turtle Lifespan: 20 to 30 years Size: 5.5 inches Weight: 11.22 ounces
20	Cumberland Slider (Trachemys Scripta Troostii)	Type: Terrestrial and Aquatic Turtle Lifespan: 30 years Size: 15 inches Weight: 7 pounds
21	Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta Caretta)	Type: Sea turtle Lifespan: 40-50 years Size: 3-3.5 ft Weight: 220-355 pounds
22	Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)	Type: Aquatic turtle Lifespan: 20-30 years Size: 30 inches Weight: 110 pounds
23	Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia Mydas)	Type: Marine turtle Lifespan: 80 years Size: 5 feet Weight: 400 pounds
24	Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys Coriacea)	Type: Marine turtle Lifespan: 45 years Size: 6.7 feet Weight: 2,000 pounds
25	Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys Imbricata)	Type: Marine turtle Lifespan: 30-50 years Size: 24-35 inches Weight: 88-110 pounds

25 Turtles You Can Find in Virginia

In total, there are 25 species of turtles in the state of Virginia. 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. Eastern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys Picta)

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 Virginia.

These unique little creatures are definitely worth protecting here in Virginia 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!

2. Red Eared Slider (Trachemys Scripta Elegans)

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

3. 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 Virginia, 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!

4. 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 Virginia, 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!

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

6. 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 Virginia.

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

7. Eastern Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone Spinifera)

The Eastern Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone Spinifera) is an incredible species of freshwater turtle found throughout Virginia. With powerful legs for swimming and a streamlined shell, this impressive creature has adapted to its aquatic environment over millennia. Adults measure between 8-18 inches with males being smaller at 8-12 inches compared to10-18 inches for females, weighing from 4-12lbs respectively. Despite their small size they are surprisingly strong and have a bite force that can put unsuspecting predators on their guard!

Yet these turtles aren’t all aggression; they’re also known to be quite timid and shy when humans appear near them, preferring the safety of rivers, streams or lakes – where plenty of vegetation exists in soft bottomed areas – as habitats. Unfortunately however some populations have declined due to habitat loss or collection for pets so it’s important we do everything in our power to protect these creatures and maintain a healthy ecosystem here in Virginia!

8. 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 Virginia. 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!

9. Eastern Chicken Turtle (Deirochelys Reticularia)

The Eastern Chicken Turtle (Deirochelys Reticularia) is a freshwater turtle species found in wetlands, swamps and rivers of the southeastern United States. It can reach up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length and live for up to 30 years. The Eastern Chicken Turtle has no size variations between birth, juvenile, adult, male and female individuals, nor does it have any other name than its own. This shy creature is not known for being aggressive towards humans but needs to watch out from potential predators such as snakes, birds, mammals or even us humans.

This species of turtle can be kept as pets but considering some states might make it illegal to collect wild turtles or sell them as pets without proper permits—including Virginia—it is important people check with local wildlife regulations before doing so.

In captivity they may be prone to respiratory infections, shell rot or other infections common to captive specimens; however they are well-adapted aquatic habitats that might help prevent those issues from occurring if kept adequately hydrated.

Even though they are not necessarily endangered yet we should still strive to preserve their natural habitats by taking steps that improve public awareness of the challenges this species faces while living in Virginia.

10. 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 Virginia 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!

11. 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 Virginia. 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 Virginia 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.

12. 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 Virginia. 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!

13. Three Striped Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Baurii)

These small turtles can be found in slow, freshwater habitats like swamps and marshes across the southeastern United States—including Virginia.

These gentle creatures can grow up to 8 inches and live for around 20-30 years with proper care. They cannot bite with much strength so they tend not to present a threat towards humans. While they make great pets, some precautionary measures must be taken such as appropriate water temperature or else metabolic bone diseases may occur.

Generally peaceful creatures that are well adapted for swimming life underwater—where they’re able keep their breath for extended periods safely from predators like birds, snakes, mammals and even other turtles! Unfortunately this species is at risk due to habitat destruction but thankfully still exists universally in areas it does call home —making it an interesting addition to our planet’s biodiversity.

14. Southeastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon Subrubrum Subrubrum)

Behold the fascinating Southeastern Mud Turtle, a species of turtle which inhabits freshwater environments such as streams, swamps and ponds of Virginia. These turtles are typically 4-5 inches long as adults and boast an impressive lifespan of 20 to 30 years!

Although they may not be particularly aggressive towards humans – their eggs and hatchlings still fall prey to animals such as birds, mammals or even larger reptiles.

Furthermore, some populations are at risk of declining due to habitat loss and exploitation.

We should strive to preserve the habitats of these creatures so that future generations can continue to enjoy their beauty for many years to come. With adequate protection, these turtles can thrive in the wild once more!

15. Northern Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin 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 Virginia, take the time to appreciate them from a respectful distance!

16. 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 Virginia. 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 Virginia.

17. Coastal Plain Cooter (Pseudemys Floridana)

This one is a species of aquatic turtle native to the Coastal Plain region of the southeastern United States, including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia. This species of turtle that inhabit Virginia has a lifespan of up to 30 years and can reach an average length of 10-14 inches in adulthood.

The Coastal Plain Cooter is a strong swimmer with webbed feet and well-developed legs that are adapted for life in slow-moving rivers and ponds. They are not aggressive by nature but may bite when threatened or disturbed. Although they can make good pets for experienced keepers, these turtles require special care and attention due to their vulnerability to diseases such as shell rot or metabolic bone disease.

Their natural predators include raccoons, skunks, river otters and birds of prey. Unfortunately, these animals are threatened by habitat loss as well as illegal pet trade in some regions. Nevertheless, there is no need to consider them endangered yet; still it’s worth being aware of the situation so conservation efforts can be taken before it’s too late.

Therefore we must remember that it is our responsibility to protect this species from extinction so future generations can continue to appreciate them in their natural environment here in Virginia.

18. 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 Virginia’s specific laws before doing so.

Even though not all populations of these amazing animals are endangered yet, their numbers have been declining across Virginia 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!

19. Eastern Musk Turtle (Sternotherus Odoratus)

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.

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 Virginia 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 Virginia home!

20. Cumberland Slider (Trachemys Scripta Troostii)

With males typically reaching up to 11 inches and females up to 15 inches in length, this species is well adapted for both aquatic and terrestrial life with webbed feet for swimming and a streamlined body.

These turtles are not particularly aggressive when handled, though they can be mildly so if disturbed. Predators in the wild include raccoons, large fish, birds of prey and humans who have been known to over-harvest them for the pet trade causing threats to population numbers.

As such, it is important to check with local authorities before acquiring this species as a pet since special care must be taken due to their vulnerability to diseases like fungal infections or shell rot when kept in unsanitary conditions.

With proper care these turtles can live for up to 30 years making them great companions for experienced keepers who are willing to put in the effort necessary for their special care needs here in Virginia.

Although they are quite hardy animals able to survive a variety of conditions they should still be fed a balanced diet consisting of protein sources such as worms, insects, crayfish and even some plants as well as supplemented Vitamin A fortified food items.

Currently this species is not listed as either threatened or endangered however due to potential habitat destruction caused by human activities such as development and pollution it is important that conservation efforts are taken before it’s too late so future generations may witness this remarkable species of turtle here in Virginia.

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 Virginia 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.

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

23. 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 Virginia 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 Virginia’s coastlines come alive with the beauty of these magnificent animals!

24. 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 Virginia 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 Virginia.

25. 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 Virginia to be able observe this amazing species living peacefully in its natural habitat!

Final Words

In the state of Virginia—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 Virginia 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 Virginia.

Other Nearby States:

• Turtles In North Carolina
• Turtles In Tennessee
• Turtles In West Virginia
• Turtles In Kentucky
• Turtles In Maryland

Resources:

• Events – Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
• Events – Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
• Eastern box turtle
• Management plan for sea turtles and marine mammals in …