Diamondback terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) are turtles native to the brackish coastal wetlands of United States, from as far north as Cape Cod, Massachusetts, as far south as the Florida Keys, and as far west as Texas. They live in brackish salt marshes and freshwater tidal pools. Although they have many predators, raccoons pose one of the greatest threats, especially to egg-laying females, their nests and hatchlings. Another major threat to populations of terrapins occurs when females are killed by automibiles while crossing roads to access nesting grounds. Diamondback Terrapins prefer nesting on high ground, away from any possibility of flooding.
The species is named for the diamond pattern on top of its shell, but the overall pattern and coloration varies greatly between individuals. Their shell coloring can range from olive brown to grey to black, and their body color can be grey to white. All have a unique pattern of black lines or spots on their body and head. The species is sexually dimorphic in that the males rarely exceed 5.5 inches, while the females grow to an average of 8 inches, although they are capable of growing larger than 10 inches.
Adult diamondback terrapins mate and lay eggs in the early spring. Clutches average 6–12 eggs, with the majority laid between May and mid-July. Hatching occurs from late summer to early fall. Maturity in males is reached in 2–3 years at about 4.5 inches in length; females take longer, maturing at 6–7 years at a length of about 6.75 inches.
Fortunately, these turtles can be raised in captivity to compensate for the large numbers of female turtles killed each year while trying to cross highways. However, greater awareness of the highway crossing habits of these turtles may prevent tragic losses in years to come.
Article by Chuck Oldham; posted June 3, 2009.
