Spotted turtle

The spotted turtle (Clemmys guttata) is a small, semi-aquatic turtle species found in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada. It is characterized by its smooth, black carapace (upper shell) adorned with distinctive yellow or orange spots, the number and pattern of which vary greatly between individuals. The plastron (lower shell) is orange or yellow-cream colored with variable dark blotches.

Spotted turtles are relatively small, typically ranging from 3.5 to 5 inches (9 to 13 cm) in length. They are long-lived, with some individuals documented to live over 50 years in the wild.

They inhabit a variety of shallow, still-water habitats including bogs, swamps, marshes, vernal pools, and slow-moving streams. These habitats are typically characterized by soft bottoms, abundant vegetation, and relatively clean water.

Spotted turtles are omnivorous, feeding on a diverse diet of invertebrates (insects, snails, crustaceans), small vertebrates (amphibians, fish), algae, and aquatic plants. Their diet varies seasonally and is dependent on the availability of food resources.

The species is considered to be declining in many areas due to habitat loss and fragmentation, collection for the pet trade, and road mortality. They are listed as a threatened or endangered species in several states and provinces. Conservation efforts include habitat protection and restoration, regulation of collection, and public education. Spotted turtles are inactive during the winter months, spending this time hibernating underwater or buried in mud or leaf litter. They are typically active from early spring to late fall, depending on weather conditions.