Fauna
Reptile

Diamondback Terrapin

Malaclemys terrapin

Also known as Diamond-backed Terrapin, Saltmarsh Terrapin

Diamondback terrapins are the only turtles in North America adapted exclusively to life in brackish coastal tidal marshes and estuaries. Specialized salt glands behind their eyes excrete excess salt, allowing them to thrive where freshwater and sea meet. Concentric diamond-shaped rings ornament each scute on their carapace, giving every individual a uniquely striking appearance as they forage for hard-shelled prey.

ReptileCoastalBrackish
Diamondback Terrapin reference1 / 7
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VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyMarsh Periwinkles, Fiddler Crabs, Ribbed Mussels
Predators
  • Raccoons
  • Gulls
  • Ghost Crabs
ThreatsCrab trap drowning, coastal development, sea level rise, nest predation, and road mortality
HabitatsSalt marshes, brackish estuaries, tidal creeks, coastal bays, and mangrove swamps
Life span25–40 years
Classification
  1. FamilyEmydidae
  2. GenusMalaclemys
  3. SpeciesMalaclemys terrapin
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Powerful jaws built for crushing shell can deliver a painful bite if handled.
What to notice
Look for distinct light grey spotted skin and concentric rings on the shell in brackish waters.
Support conservation
Give nesting females wide berth on sandy coastal dunes during spring and early summer nesting runs.
Responsible observation
  • Observe from Shore: Use binoculars to spot them floating with head and snout exposed in quiet tidal creeks.
  • Help Road Crossers: Move females crossing coastal roads safely in the direction they were already traveling.
  • Use Safe Crab Traps: Install Bycatch Reduction Devices on commercial and recreational crab pots.
Related species
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