Freshwater Turtles of Massachusetts

Learn about the colors, patterns, habitats, and behaviors of our freshwater turtle species.

Found in a variety of habitats, 10 species of native freshwater turtles call Massachusetts home. Deepen your appreciation for nature by learning to identify the turtles you may see on your next outdoor adventure or in your own backyard. Start by learning how to identify each species, if they are common or rare, who they are most often mistaken for, and what their habitat preferences are.

Learn more about each turtle below.

Trying to help a turtle?

Turtles face a number of threats, here's what you can do to help freshwater turtles.

If you see a turtle that is listed under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act, we'd like to hear from you! Please share your observation on the MassWildlife Heritage Hub and iNaturalist. Sharing requires creating an account, but you will receive confirmation and thanks from our biologists, once your observation has been reviewed and confirmed. Your reports provide critical information that informs future habitat management and wildlife conservation for future generations. For a single sighting, as an alternative to setting up a Heritage Hub account, you can also use our Rare Animal Observation Form.

Freshwater turtles

Snapping turtle

Eastern musk turtle

Painted turtle

Eastern box turtle (special concern)

Northern diamond-backed terrapin (threatened)

Northern red-bellied cooter (endangered)

Bog turtle (endangered)

Wood turtle (special concern)

Blanding's turtle (threatened)

Spotted turtle

Nonnative turtles

Trying to identify a turtle found in Massachusetts but you don't see it on this list? There are atleast 4 non-native turtles species in Massachusetts! Some are clearly established while others are not. Reporting sightings of these turtles help scientists understand their behaviors, population statuses, and how they impact the native turtle species.