Turtles in Maryland - A Summary

Maro2Bear

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Glenn Dale, Maryland, USA
Here’s a nice summary of the turtles one can expect to find/see throughout Maryland.

https://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/Pages/habitat/waturtles.aspx

Creating a Wild Backyard - Turtles in Maryland
Turtles are delightful reptiles which may find their way into your backyard if the conditions are right. Because turtles are often found in suburban wooded lots and creeks, many children get their first intimate wildlife experience with turtles. Most species of Maryland turtles require large, wet areas for their habitat. So, one of the best ways to attract them to your backyard is to have a pond or another area with water. Many times, the insects which live in and around ponds are a staple food source for turtles, so supplemental feeding isn’t necessary.


Turtle Types
Over 244 species of turtles can be found worldwide, 19 species make their home in Maryland. These turtles can be found in small ponds, non-tidal and tidal wetlands, woodlands, streams, rivers and bogs. Maryland turtles can be placed into five different groups:

turtleoutline.gif

  1. Box and Water Turtles
  2. Musk and Mud Turtles
  3. Snapping Turtles
  4. Softshell Turtles
  5. Sea Turtles
For a complete list of reptiles and amphibians in Maryland, then check out the checklist. If you happen to see a turtle or other reptile in your backyard, then consider reporting your findings to the Maryland Reptile and Amphibian Atlas.
 

Sleppo

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Jun 28, 2018
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Philadelphia, PA
Thanks for the info, I grew up in Maryland and I remember DNR being very concerned with Bog Turtle populations. The state took several acres from a family friend's farm as they found some nests they wanted to protect.
 

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