Field Guide to Maryland's Turtles (Order Testudines)
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Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta) | | Common Name:
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Wood Turtle. Photo by Kevin Stohlgren.
Wood Turtle. Photo by Brian Durkin. |
Size: 5 1/2 inches – 7 1/2 inches. Record: 8 inches |
Appearance:- As its scientific name implies, the carapace (top shell)
of this turtle is rough, looking like it has been carved from wood.
- The growth rings (annuli) are very pronounced, giving
the scutes their distinctive pyramidal shape.
- The plastron (bottom shell) has no hinges and is creamy
yellow with black blotches along the outer back corner of each scute.
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The underside of the chin and legs are colored with
bright yellow, orange or red. This gives the turtle its nickname, the "redleg"
turtle.
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Habitats:
Takes advantage of both aquatic and terrestrial habitats, but always remains
near water. On land, they may be found in a variety of usually forested
habitats, but may be found in fields and meadows and wetlands. In aquatic
areas, they prefer clear moving streams or rivers with gravel or hard-packed
bottoms.
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How to Find: |
Distribution in Maryland:
May be found west of the Fall Line through the Piedmont and into Western
Maryland; infrequently found in Prince George's and Charles Counties.
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