Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata) is a small, dark turtle species with small yellow or orange spots on the carapace. Spotteds usually prefer shallow water habitats, such as swamps, ponds, bogs, marshy wetlands, creeks (including tidal ones) or ephemeral pools, but at times may be found in forested areas some distance from water. These turtles are most frequently observed in spring, and may be harder to locate at other seasons. Their dark coloration and sedate behavior can make them very inconspicuous in shaded water (Conant & Collins, 1998). Spotted Turtle occurs statewide, but is considered Vulnerable (Maryland DNR). It has been subject to illegal poaching in portions of its range, and has suffered substantial population declines and widespread habitat destruction. The IUCN Red List considers this turtle to be endangered.
There are 242 records in the project database.
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