The scientific name for the map turtle is Graptemys geographica. The map turtle gets its name from the intricate patterns on its shell, which resemble a map.
Map turtles are found in North America east of the Rocky Mountains. They inhabit slow-moving rivers, streams, lakes and ponds. Map turtles spend most of their time in the water, but they will bask on logs or rocks when the weather is warm.
Map turtles are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Their diet includes aquatic plants, insects, crayfish and small fish.
Mature female map turtles lay their eggs on land, usually near the water’s edge. The eggs incubate for about two months before hatching. Baby map turtles are about the size of a quarter.
Map turtles can live 20 to 30 years in captivity. In the wild, their lifespan is shorter due to predation and other risks.
The map turtle is listed as a species of concern in some states due to habitat loss and degradation. pollution, over-exploitation and introduced species are also threats to these turtles.
You can help protect map turtles by conserving their habitat and not buying products made from turtle shell.
If you come across a map turtle, enjoy watching it from a distance. Do not remove it from the wild as it may not survive in captivity.