Diamond Back Terrapin
(Malaclemys terrapin)

Description: The shell plates of this turtle are ornamented with a distinctive pattern resembling a green and yellow "bulls-eye".. The coloration of the body is variable with age: juveniles are dark brown to black, while adults are white with a striking dark "leopard spot" pattern. Their feet are webbed and bear sharp claws. Adult females are larger than males: females can grow to 19 cm long while adult males reach 13 cm.

Habitat: Terrapins are found in brackish water habitats (salt marshes, tidal flats, and lagoons), and even sometimes in the open sea.

Origin: From the Northeast Coast of North America (Cape Cod) to the Gulf Coast (Texas).

Invaded Areas: California.

Concerns: Because they are popular pets sold throughout the US, terrapins could easily become introduced to our area, following release by irresponsible owners. As voracious predators of clams, snails, crabs, shrimp and marsh plants, terrapins could significantly alter invaded estuarine communities. Meanwhile on their native East Coast, terrapins are protected and rare, due to over harvesting for terrapin soup in the late 1800s and early 1900s.