Wood Turtle
Glyptemys insculpta
Conservation Status
EndangeredReptilia · Emydidae
About
The wood turtle is a species of turtle in the family Emydidae. The species is native to northeastern North America. The genus Glyptemys contains only one other species of turtle: the bog turtle. The wood turtle reaches a straight carapace length of 14 to 20 centimeters, its defining characteristic being the pyramidal shape of the scutes on its upper shell. Morphologically, it is similar to the bog turtle, spotted turtle, and Blanding's turtle. The wood turtle exists in a broad geographic range extending from Nova Scotia in the north to Minnesota in the west and Virginia in the south. In the past, it was forced south by encroaching glaciers: skeletal remains have been found as far south as Georgia.
Fun Fact
When unharmed, it can live for up to 40 years in the wild and 58 years in captivity.
Quick Facts
Habitat
To be updated
Diet
Eats prey such as beetles, millipedes, and slugs.
Lifespan
40 years
Threats
- Habitat Loss
- Poaching and Hunting
- Human-Wildlife Conflict
- Disease