Northern Diamond-backed Terrapin
Malaclemys terrapin terrapin
State Listing: Special Concern






Commonly Confused Native Species:
-
Often Not Confused with other Species
IDENTIFICATION
Size: A medium sized turtle measuring 4 to 9 inches in length
(SLC).
Color: Diamond-backed terrapins have a keeled brownish
gray/black carapace. Each scute has black markings that
loosely resemble a diamond pattern. The plastron is
orange-brown often with dark flecks or blotches. The
body is grayish-white in color with black lines and
blotches.
Behavior: Terrapins spend the majority of their time in coastal
aquatic habitats. Females come into terrestrial habitats
to lay eggs in June, when they are often seen crossing
roadways. Terrapins are docile, when handled
they may bite in defense.
Habitat: Terrapins are a coastal species found in estuaries and
tidally influenced creeks and marshes.