20 Turtle Species That Will Amaze You

20. Map Turtle

• Scientific Name: Graptemys spp.
• Habitat: Freshwater environments
• Shell Length: 5 to 10 inches
• Lifespan: 20-30 years

Map turtle is a species found in North America known for its beautiful, intricate shell markings that resemble contour lines on a map. They are often kept as pets, but require specific care. They need a large tank with a UVB light, a basking area, and a water area with a heater and filter.

They are considered beautiful due to their vibrant colors and interesting shell patterns.

19. Spotted Turtle

• Scientific Name: Clemmys guttata
• Habitat: Wetlands, marshes, and slow-moving streams
• Shell Length: 3.5 to 5 inches (9-13 cm)
• Lifespan: Around 25-50 years

The Spotted Turtle is a small freshwater turtle with a black shell adorned with yellow spots. It is known for its distinct beauty and unique appearance. They require a habitat with a mix of water and land, along with a varied diet of insects, plants, and small fish.

Found in eastern North America, they have a long history dating back millions of years. However, they are protected and illegal to keep as pets in many areas.

18. Diamondback Terrapin

• Scientific Name: Malaclemys terrapin
• Habitat: Brackish coastal environments, including salt marshes, tidal creeks, and estuaries.
• Shell Length: 4 to 9 inches (10-23 cm)
• Lifespan: 25-40 years

The diamondback terrapin is the only turtle species in North America that inhabits brackish water, a mix of fresh and saltwater. They have a diamond-shaped pattern on their shells, hence the name.

Diamondback terrapins are stunning aquatic turtles. Their shells showcase a palette of colors, from rich browns to vibrant oranges. Female terrapins can store sperm for up to four years, allowing them to lay eggs without mating.

17. Common Musk Turtle

• Scientific Name: Sternotherus odoratus
• Habitat: Slow-moving freshwater bodies, including streams, ponds, and marshes
• Shell Length: 3-4.5 inches (7.5-11.5 cm)
• Lifespan: Around 20-50 years

The Common Musk Turtle, also known as the Stinkpot, is a small freshwater turtle species found in North America. They are known for their unique ability to release a musky odor as a defense mechanism.

Their beautiful features include a dark-colored shell with yellow or orange markings. While they are occasionally kept as pets, they require specialized care and are not recommended for beginners.

16. Red-Eared Slider

• Scientific Name: Trachemys scripta elegans
• Habitat: Freshwater bodies such as ponds, lakes, rivers, and wetlands
• Shell Length: 5 to 12 inches (13-30 cm)
• Lifespan: 20-40 years

Red-eared sliders are semi-aquatic turtles native to North America. They are named for the distinctive red stripe behind their eyes. These turtles can live up to 40 years and can grow up to 12 inches long.

While they are commonly kept as pets, they require specific care, including a large tank, proper filtration, and a varied diet.

15. Roti Island Snake-Necked Turtle

• Scientific Name: Chelodina mccordi
• Habitat: Freshwater bodies of Roti Island in Indonesia
• Shell Length: Up to 8-9 inches (20-23 cm)
• Lifespan: Up to 30 years

Roti Island Snake-Necked Turtle has incredibly long neck, which can be up to two-thirds the length of its shell. They are not considered dangerous to humans as they are relatively small and have a gentle temperament.

These beautiful creatures have vibrant yellow and black markings on their skin, making them visually captivating.

14. Green Sea Turtle

• Scientific Name: Chelonia mydas
• Habitat: Coastal areas, seagrass beds, and coral reefs in warm waters.
• Shell Length: Up to 3.3 feet (1 meter)
• Lifespan: Around 80 years

These turtles, dating back over 100 million years, have roamed the oceans for ages. They are renowned for their incredible migration journeys across vast distances. their vegetarian diet colors them green. These herbivores play a vital role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems.

13. Hickatee

• Scientific Name: Dermatemys mawii
• Habitat: Freshwater rivers, lagoons, and swamps.
• Shell Length: Up to 24 inches (60 cm)
• Lifespan: Approximately 30-40 years

The Hickatee is also called Central American River Turtle. It is an endangered species found in rivers and lagoons in Central America.

These turtles are mainly herbivorous, feeding on plants and fruits. Its unique beauty is accentuated by intricate patterns on its shell. Unfortunately, habitat loss and hunting threaten this beauty. Conservation initiatives focus on safeguarding their homes, ensuring the Hickatee continues to enrich the world with its mesmerizing allure.

12. Painted Turtle

• Scientific Name: Chrysemys picta
• Habitat: Freshwater bodies, including ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams.
• Shell Length: 4 to 10 inches (10-25 cm)
• Lifespan: 20-30 years

Painted Turtles is widespread across North America. These turtles flaunt distinctive red and yellow markings on their shells. Its shell showcases a kaleidoscope of hues, ranging from deep reds and oranges to bright yellows and greens.

They are renowned for basking in groups. They are also exceptional swimmers and they use a unique "pump" mechanism for efficient breathing. These adaptable turtles thrive in various aquatic habitats contributing vibrant colors to the diverse tapestry of North American ecosystems.

11. Ornate Box Turtle

• Scientific Name: Terrapene ornata
• Habitat: Terrestrial habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and prairies.
• Shell Length: 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm)
• Lifespan: 30-40 years

The Ornate Box Turtle is a stunning creature native to North America. It has a dome-shaped shell adorned with intricate patterns of vibrant orange, yellow, and black. Their radiant coloration, coupled with its distinct high-domed shell and bright red eyes, make them truly beautiful.

These terrestrial turtles possess a remarkable homing ability, often returning to the exact spot of their birth. With a penchant for berries and insects, they showcase a diverse diet.

10. African Helmeted Turtle

• Scientific Name: Pelomedusa subrufa
• Habitat: Freshwater including rivers, ponds, and marshes.
• Shell Length: Around 6-9 inches (15-23 cm)
• Lifespan: 20-40 years

The African Helmeted Turtle, also known as the African Side-necked Turtle, is native to Sub-Saharan Africa. It has a distinctive flat, bumpy shell and a long neck that it can tuck sideways under the shell. They are omnivorous and can live up to 50 years in captivity.

It boasts a strikingly domed shell and a unique ability to tolerate brackish water. Known for its voracious appetite, it scavenges and consumes carrion, showcasing an unexpected aspect of its omnivorous nature in the animal kingdom.

9. Pig-nosed Turtle

• Scientific Name: Carettochelys insculpta
• Habitat: Freshwater rivers, lakes, and swamps
• Shell Length: Up to 15-23 inches (38-58 cm)
• Lifespan: Approximately 30-40 years

The Pig-nosed Turtle is an extraordinary freshwater species with a distinctive pig-like snout. Native to Northern Australia and New Guinea, it's the only freshwater turtle with flippers, making it an adept swimmer.

Its distinctive pig-like snout and captivating appearance make it a true beauty of the freshwater habitats it inhabits.

8. Eastern Mud Turtle

• Scientific Name: Kinosternon subrubrum
• Habitat: Freshwater
• Shell Length: 3 to 5 inches (7.5-12.5 cm)
• Lifespan: 30-50 years

The Eastern Mud Turtle is primarily found in the eastern United States. They have a unique ability to tolerate a wide range of habitats, including muddy ponds and swamps. These turtles have a small, dark shell and webbed feet for swimming.

With a history dating back millions of years, these ancient turtles have adapted to their muddy habitats, displaying a simple yet mesmerizing beauty that captivates nature enthusiasts.

7. Galapagos Giant Tortoise

• Scientific Name: Chelonoidis spp. (various species)
• Habitat: Native to the Galapagos Islands, they inhabit diverse environments within the archipelago, from arid lowlands to humid highlands.
• Shell Length: From 24 inches (60 cm) to over 4 feet (1.2 m)
• Lifespan: Over 100 years

The Galapagos Giant Tortoise is the largest tortoise species, with some individuals weighing over 900 pounds. They can live up to 100 years in the wild and have a slow metabolism, allowing them to survive for long periods without food or water. Their unique shell shape differs among different islands.

This land turtle exudes ancient charm with its colossal dome shell showcasing earthy tones and weathered patterns, a testament to centuries of resilience.

6. Spiny Softshell Turtle

• Scientific Name: Apalone spinifera
• Habitat: Freshwater including rivers, lakes, and ponds.
• Shell Length: Up to 12-15 inches (30-38 cm)
• Lifespan: Around 20-30 years

The Spiny Softshell Turtle is a unique species with a flattened, leathery shell covered in small spines. It has a long, snorkel-like nose and a flexible neck that can extend to catch prey. With webbed feet and a streamlined body, it is an excellent swimmer and can even breathe underwater.

Its olive to tan coloring seamlessly blends into aquatic landscapes. They are the unique and enchanting resident of freshwater habitats.

5. Hawksbill Sea Turtle

• Scientific Name: Eretmochelys imbricata
• Habitat: Coral reefs and rocky coastlines
• Shell Length: Typically 2.5 to 3 feet (0.8 to 1 meter)
• Lifespan: Around 30-50 years

The Hawksbill sea turtle is a small to medium-sized marine reptile with a distinctive pointed beak-like mouth, curving shell with overlapping scutes, and four flippers adapted for swimming.

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle is a masterpiece of nature, adorned with a captivating blend of amber, gold, and brown hues that form a mesmerizing mosaic on its shell. Its diet primarily consists of sponges, making it a vital part of coral reef ecosystems.

4. Loggerhead Sea Turtle

• Scientific Name: Caretta caretta
• Habitat: Coastal waters and open ocean
• Shell Length: About 2.5 to 3.5 feet (0.8 to 1.1 meters)
• Lifespan: Around 50-70 years

The Loggerhead Sea Turtle is a large marine reptile with a powerful shell and a reddish-brown coloration. It has a large head with strong jaws, enabling it to feed on hard-shelled prey.

Its stunning shell is a mix of brown, red, and yellow hues, while its flippers showcase intricate patterns. These remarkable features make the Loggerhead a true marvel of the ocean.

3. Four-Eyed Turtle

• Scientific Name: Sacalia quadriocellata
• Habitat: Forests and freshwater bodies
• Shell Length: Around 6-9 inches (15-23 cm)
• Lifespan: 40 years and above

Four-eyed turtle is a unique type of turtle species found in the rainforests of Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. Contrary to its name, it does not possess four eyes. Instead, it has a pair of prominent false eyespots on the back of its head. These eyespots serve as a defensive mechanism, deterring predators.

These turtles require a large aquatic habitat, a balanced diet of aquatic plants and insects, and a specific temperature and humidity range to thrive.

2. Leatherback Sea Turtle

• Scientific Name: Dermochelys coriacea
• Habitat: Sea
• Shell Length: 6-7 feet (1.8-2.1 meters)
• Lifespan: Around 45-55 years

Leatherback Sea Turtles are the largest sea turtle species. These ancient mariners are roaming oceans for 100 million years. Their unique soft, leathery shell sets them apart, lacking the traditional hard carapace.

These giant turtles embark on incredible migrations, crossing entire ocean basins. Their beauty lies in the intricacies of a skin pattern resembling a topographical map with a mesmerizing blend of black, blue, and pink hues. They aren't suitable as pets due to their endangered status and complex needs. 

1. Common Snapping Turtle

• Scientific Name: Chelydra serpentina
• Habitat: Freshwater habitats, such as ponds, lakes, rivers, and swamps.
• Shell Length: Typically 8-18 inches (20-46 cm)
• Lifespan: Around 30-40 years

Common Snapping Turtles are prehistoric reptiles that date back 40 million years. They make challenging but intriguing pets, as they require spacious enclosures with clean water, a basking area, and a carnivorous diet of fish and insects. They're known for their strong jaws and aggressive temperament.

Their beauty lies in their rugged, prehistoric appearance, with dark shells and ancient charm. It's vital to research local laws before adopting them, as they can grow up to 18 inches and may not be legal in some areas. They are often better appreciated in the wild due to their demanding care needs.