Diamondback Terrapin by Ken _Gilliland

DAZ|Studio • Animals • posted on Feb 18, 2023

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Description

Another turtle from my upcoming New World Turtles set. The Diamondback Terrapin occurs along parts of the eastern coast of the United States from as far north as Cape Cod, Massachusetts, to the southernmost Florida Keys. The turtles are also abundant in the Gulf Coast, from Florida to Texas. It is the only diamondback terrapin to occur in Texas. They inhabit saltwater habitats, including brackish channels, lagoons, tidal flats, marshes, estuarine areas, and coastlines. They particularly favor reedy marshes, and while they live near saltwater, they require fresh water for drinking purposes. They eat snails, other mollusks, crustaceans, fish, insects, and carrion. They use the ridges in their jaw to crush their prey. In the wild, these wary turtles are quick to flee and difficult to observe. It may be possible to observe them basking on or walking between oyster beds and mudflats. Though mild mannered, they are excellent swimmers and will head for water if approached. This species is near threatened due to seaside development and human recreation encroaching on their nesting beaches. Also, tire tracks from vehicles used on the sand pose a hazard to hatchlings. The tiny turtles get trapped in the tire tracks and die of dehydration before reaching water. To help prevent extinction, diamondbacks are now protected in several states. Interestingly, in some places the native beachgrass is now also protected and removal is against the law. Researchers have found that the presence of the beachgrass lowers the temperature of the nesting areas and can affect the sex of the hatchlings.