32 Types of Turtles In Florida

Florida is home to 32 different turtle species, including 26 freshwater turtles, one land tortoise, and five sea turtles. Thanks to the state’s diverse habitats from marshes and swamps to coastal beaches, Florida provides a haven for turtles of all kinds. In this article, we’ll explore each of these species, with care tips for those that can be kept as pets and conservation info for the protected species.

Whether you’re considering a pet turtle or hoping to spot wild turtles, this guide covers everything from cooters and sliders to mud and musk turtles. We’ll also introduce Florida’s only native tortoise and the five sea turtle species that nest on its shores. Always remember: never take native turtles from the wild or release non-native turtles, and check your local laws before keeping any turtle.

• Turtles in Florida
  • Box Turtles
  • Chicken Turtles
  • Cooter Turtles
  • Terrapins
  • Map Turtles
  • Mud Turtles
  • Musk Turtles
  • Painted Turtles
  • Pond Sliders
  • Snapping Turtles
  • Softshell Turtles
  • Spotted Turtles
• Tortoises in Florida
• Sea Turtles in Florida
• Conclusion

Turtles in Florida

Florida’s rich ecosystems support a wide variety of turtles. For example, in Brevard County and around Melbourne Beach, you can join evening turtle walks to witness nesting sea turtles. In freshwater habitats, you might encounter the Florida snapping turtle, coastal plain cooters, and even the Escambia map turtle in the Panhandle. This guide will help you identify Florida’s turtles and find the best places to see these fascinating creatures.

Box Turtles

1. Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina)

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Terrapene carolina carolina
• Other Names: Land turtle
• Adult Size: 5 to 6 inches (13 to 15 cm)
• Lifespan: 40 to 100 years
• Average Price Range: $250 to $380

Eastern Box Turtles are diurnal (active during the day) and spend their time roaming the forest floor in search of food. These beautiful turtles have a high-domed dark shell with vivid orange or yellow patterning and are found mainly in Florida’s southern regions, preferring moist grasslands, marsh edges, and woodlands.

For one juvenile Eastern Box turtle, a minimum 20-gallon terrarium is required. An adult needs a larger enclosure roughly 4 ft long and 18 inches high, ideally an outdoor pen that mimics their natural habitat. Provide a substrate of mulch or pellets deep enough for the turtle to burrow.

Keep ambient temperatures between 75°F and 80°F (24-27°C) with a basking spot around 85-88°F (29-31°C). Maintain high humidity of ~70%. Indoors, they need both a heat lamp and a UVB light on a 12-hour day/night cycle. Eastern Box Turtles dislike frequent handling, so only handle when necessary.

Diet should be omnivorous. Offer dark leafy greens and veggies, along with protein sources like crickets, earthworms, mealworms, and snails. A shallow water dish should be available for soaking.

2. Florida Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina bauri)

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Terrapene carolina bauri
• Other Names: (none)
• Adult Size: 4.5 to 6.5 inches (11 to 17 cm)
• Lifespan: 25 to 30 years
• Average Price Range: $270 to $400

Florida Box Turtles have very dark (often almost black) shells with stunning orange markings, and they sport yellow stripes on their heads. They inhabit marshes, swamps, and forests in the Florida Keys and southern peninsula. These turtles love to lie in shallow water to cool off, but they aren’t strong swimmers.

Housing can be outdoors or in a large plastic tub (e.g., a Rubbermaid tote) with plenty of cover and shade from plants. Include a hiding log or rock slab for a basking spot. They enjoy a shallow water pan to sit in (no deeper than their chin).

Florida Box Turtles require UVB exposure, either natural sunlight or a UVB bulb. Keep temperatures about 70-90°F (21-32°C) with a basking area at 85-95°F (29-35°C). Maintain humidity around 70-90% to keep their environment moist.

As omnivores, offer a varied diet: crickets, earthworms, mealworms, and slugs for protein, plus dark leafy greens and vegetables. Florida Box Turtles are fairly tolerant of gentle handling, but note that Florida law prohibits keeping more than two Florida Box Turtles per household without a permit.

3. Gulf Coast Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina major)

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Terrapene carolina major
• Other Names: (none)
• Adult Size: 6 to 8.5 inches (15 to 22 cm)
• Lifespan: 30 to 40 years
• Average Price Range: $230 to $450

The Gulf Coast Box Turtle is the largest of the common box turtle subspecies. It inhabits the Gulf Coast region, favoring wet environments like brackish marshes, estuaries, and swamps. It has a dark brown or black shell often with fluted (ridged) edges and yellow spots or stripes, giving it a striking appearance.

These turtles do best in a roomy outdoor enclosure of at least 4 ft by 8 ft. Ensure the enclosure includes a shallow water area for soaking, plus plenty of logs, plants, and rocks to provide cover. Gulf Coast Box Turtles can be shy and easily stressed by handling.

They prefer warm, humid conditions. Maintain ambient air temperature around 80-85°F (27-29°C) with a basking site at ~90°F (32°C). UVB lighting is essential (or access to direct sunlight) for 12 hours a day. Keep humidity in the 60-90% range by misting the habitat regularly.

Like other box turtles, Gulf Coast Box Turtles are omnivorous. Feed them every 2-3 days with a mix of animal protein (crickets, earthworms, mealworms, snails) and vegetables/greens like collard greens and dandelion leaves.

4. Three-toed Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina triunguis)

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Terrapene carolina triunguis
• Other Names: Three-toed Box
• Adult Size: ~5 to 7 inches (~13 to 18 cm)
• Lifespan: 50 to 100 years
• Average Price Range: $250 to $450

The smallest of the common box turtle subspecies, Three-toed Box Turtles are found in northwestern Florida (Panhandle region). They live in moist woodlands, meadows, and grasslands. These turtles have a high-domed shell usually colored light brown or tan. As their name suggests, they typically have three toes on their hind feet instead of four.

Three-toed Box Turtles do not enjoy handling and should only be handled when necessary. They thrive best in an outdoor pen roughly 4 ft by 6 ft. Bury the enclosure walls at least 10 inches deep, since these turtles are known to burrow and could escape under shallow barriers.

Maintain ambient temperatures of 75-80°F (24-27°C) with a basking spot at 85-88°F (29-31°C). Provide a humid environment (70-80% humidity). If kept indoors, use a UVB lamp on a 12-hour cycle. Always include a shallow water dish for soaking and drinking.

The Three-toed Box Turtle’s diet is omnivorous. Feed dark leafy greens (collard greens, dandelion greens) and vegetables, as well as protein sources like insects, snails, and worms.

Chicken Turtles

5. Chicken Turtle (Deirochelys reticularia)

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Deirochelys reticularia reticularia
• Other Names: American Snake-necked Turtle
• Adult Size: 4 to 10 inches (10 to 25 cm)
• Lifespan: 15 to 30 years
• Average Price Range: $130 to $200
• Where to Buy: theturtlesource.com (breeders)

Chicken Turtles are medium-sized semi-aquatic turtles found in wetlands with slow-moving water. Florida is home to two subspecies: the Eastern Chicken Turtle (D. r. reticularia) and the Florida Chicken Turtle (D. r. chrysea). Both have long, striped necks. Eastern Chicken Turtles have a green shell with a yellow net-like pattern, whereas Florida Chicken Turtles have wider orange-yellow bands on the shell.

Because they are more aquatic, Chicken Turtles need a water-focused setup with a small land area for basking. Males require at least a 75-gallon aquarium, and females about 125 gallons due to their larger size. Provide gentle water flow (they dislike strong currents) but ensure robust filtration to keep the water clean.

Keep ambient air temperature around 70-80°F (21-27°C), water temperature in the mid-70s°F (~24°C), and a basking spot of 85-90°F (29-32°C). Include aquatic plants or decorations like rocks to give them hiding spots. A UVB lamp on a 12-hour cycle is essential for indoor setups.

Chicken Turtles are carnivorous, especially as juveniles, feeding primarily on small fish and aquatic invertebrates. Offer foods like shrimp, minnows, and worms. It’s good to supplement with some dark leafy greens to vary their diet. Always provide UVB lighting for vitamin D3 synthesis and calcium metabolism.

Cooter Turtles

6. Eastern River Cooter (Pseudemys concinna)

• Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Pseudemys concinna
• Other Names: (none)
• Adult Size: 8 to 16 inches (20 to 40 cm)
• Lifespan: 20 to 40 years
• Average Price Range: $20 to $50 (Eastern River Cooters); *Suwannee Cooter is protected*
• Recommended Books: Aquatic Turtles: Sliders, Cooters, Painted, and Map Turtles by R.D. Bartlett

River Cooters are large, aquatic turtles found in fast-flowing rivers and streams across the southeastern U.S. In Florida there are two varieties: the Eastern River Cooter (P. c. concinna) and the Suwannee Cooter (P. c. suwanniensis). The Suwannee Cooter is endemic to Florida’s Suwannee River and has a darker, almost black shell with bold C-shaped markings, while the Eastern River Cooter has a dark green shell with lighter C-shaped markings on the scutes.

Important: The Suwannee Cooter is a protected species in Florida. It is illegal to possess or sell them. Habitat pollution and heavy predation on nests are major threats to its wild population. Only Eastern River Cooters may be kept as pets, and even then, you should acquire captive-bred individuals.

Eastern River Cooters need very large enclosures. An adult should ideally have an outdoor pond or a 300-gallon stock tank. Use a strong filtration system to handle their waste. Provide at least 1-2 feet of water depth for adults, along with a dry basking platform.

Maintain water temperature around 75°F (24°C). The basking spot (out of the water) should be ~85°F (29°C), and indoor setups require UVB lighting on a 12-hour cycle. These turtles spend a lot of time basking, so a sturdy dock or land area under a heat/UVB lamp is needed if kept indoors.

River Cooters are primarily herbivorous as adults. Feed plenty of aquatic plants and leafy greens like romaine, dandelion, and collard greens. Younger cooters will eat more protein (insects or commercial turtle pellets), but adults should get mostly vegetables with the occasional protein treat.

7. Florida Red-bellied Cooter (Pseudemys nelsoni)

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Pseudemys nelsoni
• Other Names: Florida Red-belly Turtle
• Adult Size: 12 to 13 inches (30 to 33 cm)
• Lifespan: 40 to 55 years
• Average Price Range: $25 to $65
• Recommended Books: Aquatic Turtles: Sliders, Cooters, Painted, and Map Turtles by R.D. Bartlett

The Florida Red-bellied Cooter is native to peninsular Florida (and just into southern Georgia’s Okefenokee region). As the name implies, it has a reddish plastron (belly shell). These are large, strong swimmers often seen in ponds, lakes, and slow rivers. They bask frequently and are among the most common basking turtles in Florida.

If keeping one as a pet, plan for a very large habitat. A single adult needs at least a 100-gallon tank, though an outdoor pond (around 5 ft by 5 ft or larger) is even better. They love deep water for swimming, so ensure the water depth is sufficient. A medium-grade gravel substrate can be used, and provide a broad basking platform under a heat lamp.

Keep water temperature around 70-75°F (21-24°C). If the water falls below this range, use an aquarium heater. The basking spot should be about 85-90°F (29-32°C). Provide a UVB light over the basking area when housing indoors. Even in outdoor ponds, some direct sun should reach their basking sites.

Florida Red-bellied Cooters will eat commercial turtle pellets (like Mazuri or ReptoMin), but they are primarily herbivores as adults. Feed them plenty of aquatic vegetation, dark leafy greens, and vegetables. They may also nibble on insects or carrion occasionally, but greens should form the bulk of their diet.

8. Peninsula Cooter (Pseudemys peninsularis)

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Pseudemys peninsularis
• Other Names: (none)
• Adult Size: 9 to 13 inches (23 to 33 cm)
• Lifespan: ~30 years
• Average Price Range: $25 to $50
• Where to Buy: theturtlesource.com (breeders)
• Recommended Books: Aquatic Turtles: Sliders, Cooters, Painted, and Map Turtles by R.D. Bartlett

The Peninsula Cooter is a hardy freshwater turtle endemic to the Florida peninsula. It has a dark shell with bright orange or yellow patterning and a lighter-colored plastron (underside) compared to the Florida Red-belly. These turtles inhabit ponds, rivers, and canals throughout central and southern Florida.

Provide a spacious swimming area. A large aquarium of 75-100 gallons is recommended for adults, though like other cooters, they truly thrive in outdoor ponds with ample room. Good filtration and a moderate water current will help simulate their natural environment and keep them healthy.

Water temperature should stay around 75-80°F (24-27°C). Their basking spot, positioned out of the water, should be about 85-90°F (29-32°C). Use a UVB light on a 12-hour cycle if kept indoors. If needed, use a water heater to maintain stable temperatures, especially in cooler climates or indoor setups.

Peninsula Cooters appreciate some cover in their environment. Decorate the tank or pond with aquatic plants and some rocks or driftwood to create hiding spots. Adults are primarily herbivorous, grazing on aquatic plants and leafy greens. Younger turtles will need more protein (insects, snails, etc.), but by adulthood their diet should be mostly vegetarian with occasional protein.

Terrapins

9. Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin)

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Malaclemys terrapin (multiple subspecies)
• Other Names: (none)
• Adult Size: 6 to 11 inches (15 to 28 cm)
• Lifespan: 15 to 20 years
• Average Price Range: $250 to $500
• Recommended Books: Ecology and Conservation of the Diamond-backed Terrapin by Willem M. Roosenburg

Diamondback Terrapins are gorgeous brackish-water turtles known for the concentric diamond patterns on their carapace and their speckled gray skin. They inhabit coastal estuaries, salt marshes, and mangroves across the eastern and southern U.S., including Florida. In Florida, five subspecies occur: Carolina, Eastern Florida (Tequesta), Mangrove, Mississippi, and Ornate Diamondback Terrapins. The Eastern Florida, Mangrove, and Ornate subspecies are found only in Florida.

Sadly, many Diamondback Terrapin populations are under pressure from habitat loss and over-collection for the pet trade. Florida wildlife authorities have been considering stricter protections (such as permit requirements) to prevent unregulated ownership. In some areas, it is or may become illegal to own a terrapin without a permit, so check current regulations.

Diamondback Terrapins have unique care needs because they live in brackish water. If you keep one, you must recreate brackish conditions: use mostly fresh water with a small amount of marine salt mix to mimic their estuary habitat. A large tank (80-100+ gallons) with excellent filtration is necessary to maintain water quality.

Maintain water temperature around 70°F (21°C) or slightly above, with an ambient air temperature near 80°F (27°C). Provide a basking platform around 90°F (32°C) with full-spectrum UVB lighting. These turtles are agile swimmers but also need a dry area to climb out and bask.

Diamondback Terrapins are largely carnivorous. Feed them a diet of aquatic snails, crabs, shrimp, clams, and worms. They will also accept high-quality commercial turtle pellets formulated for aquatic turtles. Offer a small amount of leafy greens or algae occasionally for variety. Always rinse or soak their food in fresh water if it’s salty (to avoid too much salt intake).

• Threats: Habitat destruction (coastal development) and drowning in crab traps are major threats to wild Diamondback Terrapins. Collection for the pet trade has also impacted some populations.
• Conservation: Some states protect terrapins, and Florida is working on measures to restrict terrapin ownership without permits. There are also bycatch reduction efforts (e.g., Bycatch Reduction Devices on crab pots) to help prevent terrapins from drowning.

Map Turtles

10. Barbour’s Map Turtle (Graptemys barbouri)

• Experience Level: Intermediate to Expert
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Graptemys barbouri
• Other Names: (none)
• Adult Size: 6 to 11 inches (15 to 28 cm)
• Lifespan: 15 to 20 years
• Average Price Range: N/A (protected species)
• Where to Buy: Not legally sold (protected)
• Recommended Books: Turtles of the United States and Canada by Carl J. Ernst & Jeffrey E. Lovich

Barbour’s Map Turtle is an attractive but highly localized species. It has a grayish oval shell with 2-4 prominent spikes (raised keels) along the back, and its skin is patterned with yellow stripes on a blackish-green background. In Florida, Barbour’s Map Turtles live only in certain Panhandle rivers: primarily the Apalachicola River system and a few tributaries in Jackson County.

This species is listed as Threatened in Florida. It’s illegal to own, collect, or sell Barbour’s Map Turtles. They have a very specific range and are vulnerable to water pollution and habitat changes. Chemical runoff and pollution in their river habitats are significant threats to their survival.

Barbour’s Map Turtles prefer fast-flowing, clean rivers. In the wild they are mostly carnivorous, feeding on aquatic insects, mollusks, and even small amphibians. Given their protected status, they should not be kept as pets. Observation in the wild is the best way to appreciate this species.

• Threats: Pollution and habitat degradation of their limited river systems are the biggest threats to Barbour’s Map Turtles. Nest predation and human disturbance also impact them.
• Conservation: They are designated as a Threatened species in Florida, which affords legal protection. It is illegal to take or keep them, and ongoing monitoring of their populations is in place to ensure their rivers remain healthy.

11. False Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica)

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Graptemys pseudogeographica pseudogeographica
• Other Names: Sawback Turtle
• Adult Size: 3.5 to 10.5 inches (9 to 27 cm)
• Lifespan: 30 to 50 years
• Average Price Range: $6 to $40
• Where to Buy: theturtlesource.com (common in pet trade)

False Map Turtles are not native to peninsular Florida, but they sometimes appear in the pet trade and may be found in northern Florida waterways (often as released pets). They have olive to dark brown shells with map-like yellow markings and a noticeable keel (raised ridge) along the spine, giving them the nickname “Sawback Turtle.”

Housing requirements are similar to other map turtles. Males (smaller) can live in a 50-gallon tank, while females (larger) should have ~75 gallons or more. They appreciate a good water current, so use a powerful filter that also creates some flow. Include a sturdy basking platform where they can climb out of the water completely.

Keep the basking area around 85-90°F (29-32°C) and the water about 75°F (24°C). Ambient air in the tank should be ~80-85°F (27-29°C). A UVB lamp is required for their health. Add some plants (live or fake) or driftwood as cover, since map turtles like some hiding spots to feel secure.

False Map Turtles are omnivores. Their staple diet can be a quality turtle pellet, supplemented with crickets, snails/mollusks, and earthworms. Also provide occasional dark leafy greens to ensure they get enough vitamins. They are generally hardy turtles, making them fairly popular for hobbyists with medium-to-large aquariums.

Mud Turtles

12. Eastern Mud Turtle (Kinosternon subrubrum)

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Kinosternidae
• Scientific Name: Kinosternon subrubrum
• Other Names: Common Mud Turtle
• Adult Size: 3 to 4 inches (8 to 10 cm)
• Lifespan: ~50 years
• Average Price Range: $65 to $120

Eastern Mud Turtles are small aquatic turtles with big attitudes. They have olive-brown, smooth oval shells and a highly domed back. Despite their size, they’re known for being quite feisty. An Eastern Mud Turtle will readily bite if it feels threatened, and it has a sharp, curved beak to back up its bluff. In Florida, Eastern Mud Turtles are found in the southern half of the state in calm waters like ponds, lakes, and swamps.

Don’t let their tiny size fool you, these turtles need ample swimming space. Provide at least a 40-gallon tank for one. Use a soft substrate like sand or fine gravel on the bottom, since mud turtles enjoy burrowing or walking along the tank floor. A shallow water depth (a few inches deeper than their shell length) is sufficient, as they are not strong swimmers.

Water temperature should be kept around 75°F (24°C). They prefer warm air too. You should maintain the ambient air in the mid to upper 70s°F. Offer a small basking spot at about 90-95°F (32-35°C). Also ensure they have a UVB light to bask under, as UV exposure is essential for their health.

Eastern Mud Turtles are omnivorous but heavily favor meaty foods. Feed them insects (crickets, mealworms), aquatic snails, and earthworms, along with some dark leafy greens. Be aware they are messy eaters, so a strong filtration system and regular water changes are important to keep their habitat clean.

13. Florida Mud Turtle (Kinosternon steindachneri)

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Kinosternidae
• Scientific Name: Kinosternon subrubrum steindachneri
• Other Names: Steindachner’s Mud Turtle, “Cow Dung Cooter” (colloquial)
• Adult Size: 2.5 to 5 inches (6 to 13 cm)
• Lifespan: 20+ years
• Average Price Range: $100 to $300
• Where to Buy: theturtlesource.com (captive bred available)

Once considered a subspecies of the Eastern Mud Turtle, the Florida Mud Turtle is now recognized as its own species. It is endemic to the Florida peninsula, typically found in slow-moving waters like swamps and sloughs. Florida Mud Turtles have plain dark brown shells (no stripes or spots), and a distinct yellow stripe running from their eyes along the neck. Unlike juveniles of other mud turtles, adult Florida Mud Turtles have no keel on their carapace, their shells are smooth and oval.

A 40-gallon aquarium works for these turtles, and they can even be kept in small groups if the tank is suitably large and filtered well. Like other mud turtles, they create a lot of waste when feeding, so invest in a quality filtration system. Keep water flow gentle to moderate (they don’t like strong currents).

Ideal water temperature is ~75°F (24°C). Maintain air temperature between 75°F and 80°F (24-27°C). Provide a basking spot with both heat and UVB which is around 85-95°F (29-35°C) under the lamp. Ensure easy access to the basking area since mud turtles aren’t the best climbers or swimmers.

The Florida Mud Turtle is omnivorous. Feed a varied diet of crustaceans (like freshwater shrimp or crayfish pieces), insects, worms, and snails. They will also accept commercial turtle pellets. Include some plant matter in their diet as well, dark greens or duckweed can be offered, even if they only nibble occasionally.

14. Striped Mud Turtle (Kinosternon baurii)

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Kinosternidae
• Scientific Name: Kinosternon baurii
• Other Names: Three-Striped Mud Turtle
• Adult Size: 4 to 5 inches (10 to 13 cm)
• Lifespan: 15 to 20 years
• Average Price Range: $100 to $200
• Where to Buy: Not typically sold (protected in FL)

The Striped Mud Turtle is a small turtle marked by three thin yellowish stripes running the length of its dark brown shell. It lives in Florida’s brackish and freshwater environments (like ditches, marshes, and mangrove swamps). In Florida, this species is listed as an imperiled species, though it currently doesn’t require federal Endangered status.

A single Striped Mud Turtle can live in a fairly small habitat. A 20-gallon long tank is the minimum. Provide both water and land areas. They need enough water to swim (but shallow enough to surface easily) and a land or dock area to crawl out and bask. Adding aquatic plants will make them feel secure.

Keep water at 70-75°F (21-24°C) and the basking area at 85-90°F (29-32°C). A UVB light is necessary for indoor turtles. If natural sunlight is not available, the UVB lamp should be on 12 hours a day. If your home is cool, use an underwater heater to stabilize the water temperature in the low to mid 70s°F.

Striped Mud Turtles are messy eaters, so use a strong three-stage filter and be prepared for frequent cleaning. They eat an omnivorous diet: provide insects, small mealworms, and a bit of fish or snail occasionally, supplemented with some plant matter (they might eat algae wafers or shredded greens). Despite their status in the wild, captive-bred individuals are sometimes available; if you own one, ensure you follow any state regulations regarding this species.

• Threats: Loss of wetland habitat and water pollution have reduced some Striped Mud Turtle populations. They also face predation and competition in altered ecosystems.
• Conservation: Florida lists the Striped Mud Turtle as a Species of Special Concern (imperiled). Conservation efforts focus on protecting their wetland habitats. Captive breeding has reduced pressure from collection, and they no longer qualify for federal listing.

Musk Turtles

15. Common Musk Turtle (Sternotherus odoratus)

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Kinosternidae
• Scientific Name: Sternotherus odoratus
• Other Names: Eastern Musk Turtle, “Stinkpot”
• Adult Size: 2 to 4.5 inches (5 to 11 cm)
• Lifespan: 40 to 60 years
• Average Price Range: $50 to $100

The Common Musk Turtle, or Stinkpot, is a small turtle with a big reputation. It gets its nickname from the strong musky odor it can emit when threatened. These turtles are found throughout Florida (and much of the eastern U.S.) in shallow, slow-moving waters with lots of vegetation and soft muddy bottoms. They are dark in color, their shells are plain brown/black, and they have two light stripes on their head, along with fleshy “barbels” (whisker-like organs) on their chin and throat.

Common Musk Turtles are very small, so they don’t need huge aquariums. A long 20-gallon tank can work for one adult. They aren’t great swimmers due to their small size and relatively heavy shell, so ensure the water isn’t too deep (no more than 8-10 inches) and provide plenty of resting spots like plants or driftwood near the surface. Use a secure lid because Musk Turtles are surprisingly good climbers and may escape.

Good filtration is a must because Stinkpots can foul water quickly. Provide a shallow water platform or a sloping area where they can bask. Temperature-wise, keep the water around 72-78°F (22-26°C). Basking spots should be ~90°F (32°C). A UVB lamp is needed even if they don’t bask often; they might float at the surface to bask under the light rather than climb out fully.

These musk turtles eat a variety of foods. Offer small live or frozen foods like bloodworms, chopped earthworms, small snails, and pieces of fish. They will also eat commercial aquatic turtle pellets. Include some plant matter or algae wafers occasionally to round out their diet. Because they often refuse leafy greens, you can gut-load feeder insects with greens to indirectly provide vegetable matter.

Be cautious when handling a Common Musk Turtle. If threatened or picked up, they can release a foul-smelling musk from glands near their tail. This is a defense mechanism against predators. They can also bite. It’s best to enjoy them by observation and only handle when absolutely necessary (like tank cleaning).

16. Loggerhead Musk Turtle (Sternotherus minor)

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Kinosternidae
• Scientific Name: Sternotherus minor
• Other Names: (none)
• Adult Size: 3 to 4.5 inches (8 to 11 cm)
• Lifespan: ~20 years
• Average Price Range: $100 to $250
• Where to Buy: reptilesncritters.com (captive bred often available)

The Loggerhead Musk Turtle is named for its unusually large head (relative to its body size). This species is native to the clear spring-fed rivers and streams of northern Florida and parts of neighboring states. It has a light brown shell with a prominent keel in juveniles (which may smooth with age) and grey skin sprinkled with black spots. A subspecies called the Stripe-necked Musk Turtle (S. minor peltifer) is also found in northern Florida. Both look and behave similarly and have essentially the same care requirements.

Despite being small, Loggerhead Musks need a bit more space than Common Musks because they are active swimmers. Provide at least a 30-gallon aquarium for one adult. Ensure the tank has plenty of water depth for swimming (they are more aquatic than some other musk turtles) and lots of hides like driftwood, rock caves, or dense plants. They love to wedge themselves under objects or between rocks.

Maintain a water temperature around 70°F (21°C) and air temperature roughly 75-83°F (24-28°C). Offer a basking spot of 85-90°F (29-32°C) under a UVB lamp. They might not bask as frequently as sliders or cooters, but they will occasionally climb onto a low dock or pile of rocks to warm up. Make sure the basking area is easily accessible (ramp or gentle slope) since they aren’t strong climbers.

Loggerhead Musks are carnivorous by nature. Feed them aquatic insects, ghost shrimp or crayfish pieces, snails, and worms. They readily accept turtle pellets as well. You can offer some leafy greens, but often they ignore vegetation. Their diet in the wild is mostly protein. Including a cuttlebone in the tank can provide a calcium source they might chew on, which is good for their shell and bone health.

This species is generally personable and can become tame, often begging for food. However, avoid housing them with much larger or aggressive turtles, as their large head might provoke fights or they could nip tankmates. Like other musks, they can exude an odor if stressed, but Loggerheads are not as prone to doing so as the Common Musk.

Painted Turtles

17. Southern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys dorsalis)

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Chrysemys dorsalis
• Other Names: (none)
• Adult Size: 5 to 7 inches (13 to 18 cm)
• Lifespan: 20 to 50 years
• Average Price Range: $70 to $140

The Southern Painted Turtle is the smallest of the painted turtle subspecies. While Painted Turtles are more common to Florida’s north, the Southern Painted’s range is mainly west of the Apalachicola (in the Panhandle) and into other Gulf states. They have a smooth, dark shell often with a red or orange dorsal stripe running down the middle of the carapace. They prefer shallow, slow-moving waters and floodplain pools.

Caring for a Southern Painted Turtle is much like caring for a small slider. They need an aquatic setup of around 75-100 gallons for a pair or around 100 gallons for a single adult to have ample swimming room. Provide a dry basking dock made of rock or a turtle platform where they can haul out completely. Clean water is vital. Use a good filter and be prepared for regular water changes.

They enjoy basking, so keep a UVB-equipped basking area at 85-95°F (29-35°C). Water should be maintained at 75-80°F (24-27°C), and ambient air around 80-85°F (27-29°C). They are more heat-tolerant than some species but avoid letting the water get too warm or dirty, as that can cause illness.

Southern Painted Turtles are omnivores. In captivity they do well on a base diet of commercial turtle pellets supplemented with protein (crickets, mealworms, small earthworms) and plant material. Young painteds eat more insects, while adults shift to more vegetation. You can place aquatic plants in their tank (like anacharis or water lettuce) which they will snack on, as well as offer romaine or other leafy greens.

Pond Sliders

18. Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Trachemys scripta elegans
• Other Names: Red-eared Terrapin
• Adult Size: 8 to 14 inches (20 to 36 cm)
• Lifespan: ~20 years
• Average Price Range: $50 to $120

The Red-eared Slider is one of the world’s most popular pet turtles. Although it is not native to Florida, many have been released into Florida’s ecosystems, where they are now considered an invasive species (they compete with native turtles for food and habitat). They are easily recognized by the red “ear” marking on each side of their head.

Note on legality: In Florida it is illegal to acquire or import a Red-eared Slider as a pet unless you owned it before July 1, 2007. This regulation was put in place to prevent further introductions. If you live in a region where Red-ears are legal and you have one, here are some care basics:

Red-eared Sliders thrive in ponds, lakes, and marshes with warm, still water. In captivity, a single adult needs at least a 40-gallon tank (bigger is always better, many keepers go for 75-100 gallons for an adult female). Clean, warm water and a strong filtration system are crucial (sliders are messy eaters). Use gravel or river rock large enough that it can’t be swallowed as substrate.

Provide a spacious swimming area plus a dock or land area for basking. Red-ears are avid baskers; they will pile on top of each other on a log in the sun. The basking spot should reach about 95°F (35°C), while water is kept around 75°F (24°C). UVB lighting must be on for 12 hours a day if the turtle doesn’t have regular direct sunlight access. Maintain good water quality with filtration and partial water changes.

These sliders are omnivorous. Feed a varied diet: commercial turtle pellets, plus vegetables (collard greens, aquatic plants, etc.) and occasional proteins like crickets, mealworms, or shrimp. Juveniles are more carnivorous and will eat more animal protein, whereas adults eat more plant matter. Avoid overfeeding them because sliders have big appetites and can beg convincingly for food!

Red-eared Sliders generally do not enjoy handling and may scratch or bite if stressed. They are best enjoyed as active, aquatic display animals. With good care, they can live for decades and grow quite large, so be prepared for a long-term commitment.

• Threats (environmental): Red-eared Sliders are not threatened as a species. In fact, they are invasive in many areas. The greater concern is the threat they pose to native wildlife by outcompeting local turtle species.
• Conservation: Florida’s ban on owning new Red-eared Sliders since 2007 is aimed at conservation of native turtles. Pet owners who already had them can keep them under special conditions (e.g., not allowing breeding or escape. In other places, measures like the federal ban on selling turtles under 4 inches (to curb salmonella and impulse buys) indirectly help reduce slider releases.

19. Yellow-bellied Slider (Trachemys scripta scripta)

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Trachemys scripta scripta
• Other Names: Yellow-bellied Terrapin
• Adult Size: 8 to 13 inches (20 to 33 cm)
• Lifespan: 30 to 40 years
• Average Price Range: $34 to $75

The Yellow-bellied Slider is a close cousin of the Red-eared Slider and is actually native to northern Florida (as well as parts of Georgia and the Carolinas). In Florida, they are among the most common freshwater turtles. They have yellow plastrons (belly shells) and prominent yellow stripes on their head and limbs, including a characteristic thick yellow stripe behind each eye. Their carapace is olive to brown with black markings along the edges of the scutes.

In the wild, Yellow-bellied Sliders occupy a wide range of habitats from ponds and swamps to rivers. They are strong swimmers and enthusiastic baskers. For captivity, similar care to Red-eared Sliders applies: a large tank or, ideally, an outdoor pond. A single adult should have around a 75-gallon tank minimum, but 100+ gallons is better, especially for a big female. Provide a ramp-accessible basking platform with a heat lamp and UVB lamp above it.

They can be messy (lots of waste), so invest in robust filtration. Water temperature should be 75-80°F (24-27°C). If you can’t maintain those temperatures naturally, use an aquarium heater. The basking area can range from about 80°F up to 100°F (27-38°C). Giving a gradient lets the turtle regulate its temperature. They will bask often, so a combination of UVB and heat overhead is necessary.

Yellow-bellied Sliders are omnivorous and not very picky. In captivity, they will eat leafy greens, aquatic plants, and veggies, as well as crickets, insects, snails, worms, and floating turtle pellets. It’s good to offer a variety to ensure balanced nutrition. Generally, feed juveniles daily and adults every 2-3 days, with plant matter available more frequently.

This species is fairly social with other sliders and cooters and can often cohabitate in roomy ponds. However, they should not be kept with much smaller turtles that could be seen as food. As with Red-ears, minimal handling is best. They can bite if frightened. With proper care, these sliders live for decades, so be prepared to care for a long-lived pet.

Snapping Turtles

20. Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys temminckii)

• Experience Level: Expert
• Family: Chelydridae
• Scientific Name: Macrochelys temminckii
• Other Names: Loggerhead Snapper
• Adult Size: 15 to 26 inches (38 to 66 cm) shell length
• Weight: Up to ~220 lbs (100 kg) for very large males
• Lifespan: 20 to 70 years
• Average Price Range: N/A (protected species)
• Where to Buy: Not available (illegal to keep in Florida)

The Alligator Snapping Turtle is a legendary species, the largest freshwater turtle in North America and one of the largest in the world. It truly looks prehistoric, with a spiky, rugged shell, a thick scaled tail, and powerful beaked jaws. In Florida, genuine Alligator Snappers are found primarily in the panhandle river systems (e.g., parts of the Suwannee River), and even there they are uncommon.

Legal note: It is illegal to sell or keep Alligator Snapping Turtles as pets in Florida. In states where it’s allowed, only very experienced keepers with the right facilities should even consider it. These turtles grow enormous and require extremely large enclosures.

An adult Alligator Snapper can easily weigh over 100 lbs and needs an outdoor pond or stock tank of several hundred gallons at minimum. They are mostly aquatic and rarely bask (they often just float near the surface if they want to warm up). A suitable habitat would mimic a large, deep pond with logs or ledges underwater where the turtle can rest. Handling an adult is dangerous; their bite can amputate fingers. They also can’t be safely kept with other turtles (they’ll view them as food).

Alligator Snappers are almost entirely carnivorous. In the wild, they lie on the bottom and use a pink worm-like lure on their tongue to attract fish. They eat fish, frogs, snakes, and any meat they can scavenge. In captivity, young ones will eat commercial turtle or fish pellets, but adults prefer larger prey or meat items. This species is a top predator in its environment.

Due to their protected status in Florida, the focus is on conservation rather than captive care. They have been overharvested in the past (for meat and sport). If you’re in Florida and lucky enough to see one in the wild, admire it from a distance. Never try to catch or disturb it, aside from being illegal, it’s dangerous for both you and the turtle.

• Threats: Habitat loss and overharvesting greatly reduced Alligator Snapper populations historically. They have slow growth and reproduction, making them vulnerable. Today, bycatch in fishing and illegal poaching remain issues.
• Conservation: Florida and many other states protect the Alligator Snapping Turtle. Conservation programs monitor wild populations and enforce no-take laws. Public education, such as teaching anglers to avoid and safely release these turtles from lines also helps. Nationwide, this species is being considered for further protection under the Endangered Species Act.

21. Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)

• Experience Level: Intermediate to Expert
• Family: Chelydridae
• Scientific Name: Chelydra serpentina
• Other Names: Common Snapper, Eastern Snapping Turtle
• Adult Size: 8 to 20 inches (20 to 51 cm)
• Lifespan: 30 to 50 years
• Average Price Range: $20 to $40

The Common Snapping Turtle is found throughout Florida in just about any larger body of freshwater. While not as massive as the Alligator Snapper, they can still grow quite large and have a fierce disposition. They have a ridged, dark carapace, a long saw-toothed tail, and a sharp hooked beak. Snappers can be aggressive on land (where they feel vulnerable), but in water they usually prefer to swim away from people.

Housing a full-grown Common Snapper is a big undertaking. Adults often exceed 30 lbs and need a huge tank or pond (200-300 gallons or more). Many keepers use outdoor stock tanks or fenced pond areas. They require plenty of water depth to swim and a soft substrate or mud where they can bury themselves. Filtration is necessary to maintain water quality, but they are tolerant of a range of conditions. These turtles don’t bask conventionally. They might float at the surface to sun themselves. A UVB light can be provided in indoor setups, but often they’ll just bask by hanging just below the surface of the water under a lamp.

If kept indoors, ensure water is heated to around 80°F (27°C) for optimal activity. Snappers are fairly cold-tolerant and can handle cooler water, but growth and feeding are best at warmer temps. They generally don’t need a land area aside from something like a sturdy platform just below water where they can rest and breathe. Cover the tank, they are strong and can push out of enclosures if given an opening.

Diet-wise, Common Snappers are omnivores leaning towards carnivory. They will eat fish, crayfish, insects, amphibians, and even aquatic plants. In captivity, they accept fish (whole or fillets), worms, snails, commercial turtle diets, and cuts of meat. They also appreciate leafy greens or fruit on occasion. Feeding them in a separate container can help keep their main tank cleaner (because they are very messy eaters).

Handling caution: A large Snapper can deliver a serious bite and has sharp claws. It’s best not to handle them unless absolutely necessary. Use extreme care (or better, use a large net to move them if needed). Most bites occur when people try to pick them up incorrectly. If you find one in the wild crossing a road, the safest method is to gently coax it in the direction it was heading using a long object. Do not lift it by the tail (this can injure the turtle).

Common Snapping Turtles are abundant in Florida and not protected, but as pets they are a long-term, space-intensive commitment. They’re best suited for experienced hobbyists or for outdoor pond enclosures. Observing them in nature is a delight, just give them respect and space.

Softshell Turtles

22. Florida Softshell Turtle (Apalone ferox)

• Experience Level: Expert (due to size and temperament)
• Family: Trionychidae
• Scientific Name: Apalone ferox
• Adult Size: Males ~6-12 inches (15-30 cm); Females 11-24 inches (28-61 cm)
• Lifespan: 50+ years
• Average Price Range: $70 to $200

The Florida Softshell is a large, fully aquatic turtle recognizable by its pancake-flat, leathery shell and long snorkel-like nose. It is native across nearly all of Florida’s freshwater habitats (and into parts of Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina). Florida Softshells are impressive swimmers and surprisingly fast on land as well. They have olive-brown shells and a plain white or grey underside. Despite lacking a hard shell, they can defend themselves with strong jaws and sharp claws.

These turtles get big, especially the females, which can reach 2 feet in shell length. Housing an adult Florida Softshell requires an exceptionally large aquarium or pond (200 gallons is the bare minimum). They prefer a soft, sandy or muddy substrate where they can burrow and hide (often only their head and neck protruding). Provide some underwater structure (like driftwood or PVC tubes) for them to feel secure. They do not need an elaborate land area, but they should have easy access to shallow water or a sloping bank if in a pond, as they sometimes bask by floating at the surface or resting in very shallow water.

Water temperature should be 75-80°F (24-27°C). Keep ambient air around 75-85°F (24-29°C). Provide a basking spot (if possible) around 90-100°F (32-38°C) along with UVB light. Many keepers find their softshells rarely bask out of water; instead, the turtle may just lurk under the heat lamp with only its head exposed. Still, UVB is beneficial for their health in captivity.

Florida Softshells are carnivores. They will eat fish, crayfish, insects, snails, amphibians, basically any animal they can catch. In captivity, a varied meaty diet is key: feeder fish (use quarantined fish to prevent parasites), earthworms, crayfish or shrimp, and high-protein turtle pellets can all be offered. They have voracious appetites. **Important**: Softshells can be aggressive, and in an aquarium they might bite tankmates (and even try to bite hands during maintenance). Take care when working in their tank and consider keeping them solitary.

Handling should be avoided. A scared softshell can deliver a painful bite and their long neck means they can reach around more than you expect. Their shell is also easily injured by rough surfaces, so ensure their environment has nothing sharp. They are recommended for advanced keepers due to their size, strength, and special needs.

23. Gulf Coast Smooth Softshell (Apalone mutica calvata)

• Experience Level: Intermediate to Expert
• Family: Trionychidae
• Scientific Name: Apalone mutica calvata
• Other Names: (none)
• Adult Size: Males 4.5-10.5 inches (11-27 cm); Females 6.5-14 inches (17-36 cm)
• Lifespan: 25+ years
• Average Price Range: $40 to $60
• Where to Buy: theturtlesource.com (captive bred sometimes available)

The Gulf Coast Smooth Softshell is a subspecies of the Midland Smooth Softshell, found in the western Florida Panhandle and into Alabama and Mississippi (not the peninsula). They inhabit large rivers (like the Escambia and Perdido Rivers) with moderate currents. As the name suggests, Smooth Softshells lack the small spines on the front of the shell that spiny softshells have. Their carapace is smoother. They range in color from tan to brown and have spots or blotches, especially on juveniles.

This is a fully aquatic species that rarely leaves the water except to nest. In captivity, they need a setup similar to the Florida Softshell but can be slightly smaller given they don’t get as large (especially the males). A 75-100 gallon tank can house a male, whereas a large female would need more space (150+ gallons). The key is providing very clean water and a soft, sandy substrate. Avoid any gravel or rocks that could scratch their shell. A fine sand bottom is ideal.

They prefer a steady water current, so using a canister filter output or powerhead to create flow is beneficial. Water temps should be 70-80°F (21-27°C). They will bask occasionally on a floating platform or bank, so include something for that (even a floating turtle dock). Keep a UVB light above the basking spot. Smooth Softshells, like others, dislike handling and will become defensive if restrained.

A Smooth Softshell’s diet is carnivorous. You should feed them crickets, roaches, earthworms, cut fish, shrimp, and snails. They usually readily eat floating turtle pellets too. They can be shy feeders, so provide hiding spots and maybe feed with tongs or in a separate tub if needed. Watch out though, they can bite fingers if they mistake them for worms!

Although not as commonly kept as Florida Softshells, Gulf Coast Smooth Softshells can make interesting captives for an experienced hobbyist. They are generally a bit less aggressive than spiny softshells, but individual temperament varies. As with all softshells, water quality is paramount. Any ammonia or waste buildup can lead to skin or shell infections in these sensitive turtles.

24. Gulf Coast Spiny Softshell (Apalone spinifera aspera)

• Experience Level: Intermediate to Expert
• Family: Trionychidae
• Scientific Name: Apalone spinifera aspera
• Other Names: (none)
• Adult Size: Males 5-9.5 inches (13-24 cm); Females 7-19 inches (18-48 cm)
• Lifespan: 20 to 50 years
• Average Price Range: $70 to $280
• Recommended Books: Soft-Shell Turtle Pet Owners Guide by Ben Team

The Gulf Coast Spiny Softshell is a subspecies of the Spiny Softshell Turtle. It’s found in the western part of Florida’s Panhandle (as well as in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi). They favor rivers and large streams. “Spiny” refers to the small, spine-like projections on the front edge of their soft shell (most noticeable in juveniles and males). Their shell has black speckles and rings, with a light rim often marked by a pattern of black “bars.” Colors vary from brown to tan. Males stay much smaller and usually darker; females get very large and often lighter in color with more blotches.

For housing, a large enclosure is needed especially for females. A 75-100 gallon aquarium is a starting size for a male; females need 100+ gallons. Soft, sandy substrate is a must. Provide a wide tank footprint because these turtles love to swim fast and also bury themselves in sand. The water should be well-filtered with some current. Spiny softshells enjoy moving water and well-oxygenated environments. Do not use gravel, as they can injure themselves or even ingest it.

Keep water temperatures around 75°F (24°C). Give them a way to bask. A floating platform or a sloped bank area. They will bask under UVB and heat but are often skittish about it and may dive when approached. Air temperature in the basking area should be ~85-90°F (29-32°C). Cover the tank to prevent escapes; these turtles can be surprisingly good climbers if there are filter tubes or decorations near the tank top.

Like other softshells, they do not tolerate handling and will scratch and bite if cornered. Always handle with care (if you must) by firmly grasping the rear of the shell near the hind legs. They have long necks that can reach around to bite if you hold them near the front.

A Spiny Softshell’s diet is carnivorous. Feed them plenty of insects (crickets, mealworms), aquatic invertebrates, fish, and worms. They also take turtle pellets. Feed young ones daily and adults every other day. Because they’re active hunters, consider occasional live feeder fish or shrimp to stimulate natural behavior (but avoid goldfish which are high in fat and thiaminase).

This species is quite aggressive toward tankmates and even toward humans if provoked. A large female can inflict a painful bite. It’s best kept alone. Despite the challenges, spiny softshells are fascinating to watch due to their speed and unique appearance. Ensuring they have ample space and pristine water will go a long way in keeping them healthy in captivity.

Spotted Turtles

25. Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Emydidae
• Scientific Name: Clemmys guttata
• Other Names: (none)
• Adult Size: 3.5 to 5 inches (9 to 13 cm)
• Lifespan: 25 to 35 years
• Average Price Range: $150 to $280
• Recommended Books: The Spotted Turtle: North America’s Best by Marty Stouffer (or similar)

The Spotted Turtle is a small, semi-aquatic turtle named for the bright yellow polka dots scattered across its black shell. In Florida, true native Spotted Turtles are only found in the far northeastern part of the state (they are more common further north along the East Coast). They live in shallow, vegetated wetlands like bogs, swamps, and marshy meadows. Their beauty and manageable size have made them popular in herpetoculture, but their populations in the wild have declined in many areas due to overcollection and habitat loss.

Spotted Turtles can make wonderful captives. A single turtle can be kept in a 20-gallon long tank (though bigger is better, especially for multiple individuals). They need both land and water areas, as they are equally at home roaming on land or in shallow water. Provide an area of shallow water (no deeper than the turtle’s shell length or so) with plenty of plants or hides, as well as a sloping land area with moss or leaf litter. They are not strong swimmers and prefer to walk along the bottom of shallow pools.

Water should be kept at 75-80°F (24-27°C). The basking spot on land should be about 90-95°F (32-35°C) under a UVB lamp. Humidity in their terrestrial area should be high (they enjoy a moist environment around 70%+). A gentle filter or regular water changes will keep their water quality good. Since their water area is shallow, even a simple sponge filter or frequent manual changes can work.

Spotted Turtles are more carnivorous but will also eat some vegetation. They relish small crustaceans, insects, snails, and worms. A varied diet of bloodworms, blackworms, brine shrimp, chopped earthworms, and high-quality turtle pellets works well. They will also eat aquatic plants, so offering duckweed or shredded greens in the water is a good idea. Feed adults 2-3 times a week; juveniles can be fed every day or every other day.

These turtles do very well in outdoor pens in mild climates, where they can get natural sunlight and experience seasonal changes (which can stimulate breeding). If keeping outdoors, ensure the pen is escape-proof and provides both a pond section and plenty of hiding spots on land.

Because of their attractive coloration and gentle nature, Spotted Turtles have been heavily collected. If you decide to keep one, make sure it is captive-bred (wild collection is illegal in most places). With proper care, these little turtles can live for decades and be quite personable. Many keepers report their spotteds learn to beg for food and recognize their caretakers.

• Threats: Habitat destruction (draining of wetlands) and poaching for the pet trade are the biggest threats to wild Spotted Turtles. They are also vulnerable to predators due to their small size and many get hit by vehicles when moving between wetlands.
• Conservation: Spotted Turtles are protected across much of their range. Conservation efforts include habitat preservation and head-start programs. In Florida, they are not widespread, but they are an indicator of healthy, intact wetland ecosystems.

*We’ll now move on to Florida’s only tortoise species and the sea turtles that frequent Florida’s shores. Note that none of these species can be kept as pets. They are protected by law. But it’s beneficial to know about them in case you encounter them in the wild.*

Tortoises in Florida

27. Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus)

• Family: Testudinidae
• Scientific Name: Gopherus polyphemus
• Other Names: (none)
• Adult Size: 10 to 15 inches (25 to 38 cm)
• Weight: 10 to 20 lbs (4.5 to 9 kg)
• Lifespan: 40 to 60 years in the wild
• Conservation Status: Vulnerable (Threatened in Florida)
• Habitat: Dry uplands like pine flatwoods, scrub, and coastal dunes (areas where they can dig burrows in well-drained soil)
• Clutch Size: Up to 25 eggs (often fewer, around 5-10 on average)
• Food: Herbivore – grasses, broadleaf plants, fruits, and flowers
• Appearance: Stout, dark brown or gray shell and scaly, elephantine legs adapted for digging burrows

The Gopher Tortoise is Florida’s only native land tortoise. It is a keystone species in Florida’s ecosystems, meaning it plays a crucial role that many other animals depend on. Gopher Tortoises dig extensive burrows (up to 15 feet long or more), which provide shelter for over 350 other species, including snakes, frogs, mammals, and invertebrates. In times of wildfires, these burrows become life-saving refuges for many creatures. Gopher Tortoises are found throughout Florida in dry, sandy habitats where they can easily dig, such as longleaf pine sandhills, oak scrubs, and coastal dunes.

This tortoise cannot be kept as a pet. It is protected by Florida law due to declining populations from habitat loss. It is common to see them in natural areas or even suburban lots that still have undeveloped sandy soil. They are often spotted lumbering along in the mornings or late afternoons, grazing on low-growing plants.

Gopher Tortoises have a dark brown to gray shell and rough, scaly limbs. Their front legs are shovel-like for digging. They typically dig burrows that are about 6-8 inches high and wide enough for them to turn around in, often with a characteristic sand “apron” at the entrance from the excavated soil. They spend a lot of time in these burrows to escape extreme heat and cold.

Their diet is entirely herbivorous. They eat wiregrass, gopher apple, broadleaf grasses, and many types of wildflowers and low-growing herbs. They also enjoy the pads and fruits of prickly pear cactus and other seasonal fruits. Because their diet is so fiber-rich, they have a slow metabolism and can live in nutrient-poor environments by extracting maximum nutrition from the plants.

If you encounter a Gopher Tortoise in the wild, admire it but do not disturb it or its burrow. It is illegal to handle or harass them. If one is found crossing a road and in imminent danger from traffic, you can gently pick it up (with two hands, supporting its shell) and move it directly across in the direction it was headed, then let it go, but this should only be done to prevent a collision.

• Threats: Gopher Tortoise populations have declined due to habitat loss (development of their sandy habitats into housing, agriculture, etc.) and fragmentation. Road mortality and human harassment also pose threats. They are sometimes killed inadvertently when their burrows are collapsed during construction or land clearing.
• Conservation: The Gopher Tortoise is listed as Threatened in Florida. Conservation measures include relocating tortoises from development sites (with permits), preserving large tracts of suitable habitat, and public education campaigns. Because of their importance, saving gopher tortoise habitat also protects the myriad other species that rely on their burrows. There are active programs to manage pine forests with controlled burns which maintain the open sunny groundcover that tortoises and their food plants need.

Check out our Gopher Tortoise page for more information on this remarkable reptile.

Sea Turtles in Florida

Florida’s beaches, notably along the Space Coast (Brevard County), Treasure Coast, and Gold Coast (e.g., Vero Beach, Broward County) are critical nesting grounds for several endangered sea turtle species. Organizations like the Sea Turtle Preservation Society and the Sea Turtle Conservancy work tirelessly to protect these nesting sites from threats like habitat encroachment and artificial lighting. Florida’s warm coastal waters serve as feeding areas as well. Leatherback sea turtles, for example, travel immense distances but regularly nest on Florida’s east coast, with Palm Beach County hosting roughly half of all leatherback nests in the U.S.

28. Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)

• Family: Cheloniidae
• Scientific Name: Chelonia mydas
• Adult Size: ~3 to 4 feet shell length (0.9 to 1.2 m)
• Weight: 300 to 400 lbs (136 to 181 kg) on average
• Lifespan: 80 to 100 years
• Conservation Status: Endangered
• Habitat: Tropical and subtropical oceans; in Florida they forage in seagrass beds in shallow bays and nearshore waters, and nest on sandy beaches
• Clutch Size: ~110 to 115 eggs per nest; females nest multiple times (2-5 clutches) in a season
• Food: Mostly herbivorous as adults – diet of seagrasses and algae (juveniles eat more invertebrates)
• Appearance: Large, smooth heart-shaped shell colored olive to brown with radiating mottled patterns; light-colored edges. They have a single pair of scales (prefrontal scales) between the eyes (a key distinguishing feature from some other sea turtles)

The Green Turtle is one of the largest sea turtles in the world (only the Leatherback is bigger). Green Turtles get their name not from their shell color (which is usually brownish or olive) but from the greenish fat in their body, a result of their plant-heavy diet. They are found worldwide in tropical and subtropical waters. Florida represents one of the most important nesting areas for Green Turtles in the Western Hemisphere. Every summer (typically June through September), thousands of Green Turtle nests are laid on Florida’s Atlantic coast beaches, especially within the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge on the central east coast.

Green Turtle hatchlings are omnivorous, but as they mature, they shift to a primarily herbivorous diet, grazing on seagrass meadows and algae. This diet is why their body fat turns green. Adults typically inhabit shallow coastal areas with abundant seagrass or seaweed. They are daytime feeders and will often come up to rest on reefs or rocks between feeding bouts.

Sadly, Green Turtles face many threats. Over a thousand females nest in Florida each year, but historically their numbers were much higher. They have been hunted for their meat and eggs, and in some countries, they still are. They also suffer from fibropapillomatosis, a disease causing debilitating tumors that has affected many Green Turtle populations. On nesting beaches, artificial lighting can disorient hatchlings, causing them to wander inland instead of heading to the sea. Entanglement in fishing gear (nets, longlines) and ingestion of marine debris like plastics are significant causes of injury or death for Green Turtles.

• Threats: Sea pollution (especially plastics) and entanglement in fishing nets and lines are major threats to Green Sea Turtles. Loss of nesting beaches due to coastal development and climate-change-related sea level rise also threaten their reproduction. Additionally, boat strikes in shallow seagrass areas injure many Green Turtles.
• Conservation: Green Sea Turtles are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Florida’s extensive network of protected nesting beaches and conservation programs (including lighting ordinances to reduce beach lighting during nesting season) have helped Green Turtle nest numbers increase dramatically in the past few decades. Globally, efforts include turtle excluder devices (TEDs) in shrimp nets to reduce bycatch, and international agreements like CITES ban trade in turtle products. However, Green Turtles remain endangered and conservation work continues to focus on protecting nesting beaches and feeding grounds.

Interesting fact: Green Turtles don’t reach maturity until about 20-25 years old. This long maturation is one reason why population recovery is slow. It takes decades for a hatchling to become a breeding adult.

For more details, see our Green Sea Turtles page.

29. Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)

• Family: Cheloniidae
• Scientific Name: Eretmochelys imbricata
• Adult Size: 30 to 35 inches (75 to 90 cm)
• Weight: 100 to 155 lbs (45 to 70 kg)
• Lifespan: 30 to 50 years
• Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
• Habitat: Coral reefs, rocky coastal areas, and estuaries in tropical waters. In Florida, mainly around the Florida Keys and the southeastern reefs.
• Clutch Size: 140 to 200 eggs; up to ~4 nests per season
• Food: Omnivorous, but specialized in eating sponges (also eat other invertebrates like crustaceans and mollusks, and algae)
• Appearance: A beautifully patterned shell with overlapping scutes (often a tortoiseshell amber-and-brown mottling). The head is narrow with a sharp, bird-like beak (hence the name “hawksbill”). The front flippers usually have two claws.

The Hawksbill is often considered the most beautiful of sea turtles, but tragically that beauty has been its downfall. Their shells (often called “tortoiseshell”) were highly prized for making jewelry and decorative items. Overexploitation for this trade, along with habitat loss, has made Hawksbills critically endangered. It’s estimated that only about 8,000 nesting females remain globally. In Florida, Hawksbill sightings are relatively rare, they are mostly found on reefs in the Florida Keys and on some reefs offshore of southeast Florida. A small number of Hawksbill nests are laid in Florida each year (generally June through August), but Florida is not a major nesting area for this species compared to the Caribbean regions like Barbados or Mexico.

Hawksbills are crucial for reef health. They predominantly eat sponges, which if left unchecked can outcompete corals. By grazing on sponges, Hawksbills help maintain the balance on coral reefs. Their pointed beak allows them to reach into crevices and extract sponges and other invertebrates. They also have a preference for eating toxic sponges that few other animals can eat, effectively removing these from the reef and preventing overgrowth.

The carapace of a Hawksbill is a work of art and has translucent amber with streaks of brown, black, and orange. The scutes on the shell overlap (like shingles), which is unique among sea turtles. This “tortoiseshell” material was historically harvested. Thankfully, international trade in Hawksbill shell is now banned, but illegal poaching still occurs in some areas. They also suffer the same threats as other sea turtles: bycatch in fisheries, marine debris, and loss of nesting habitat.

• Threats: Beyond general threats like water pollution and entanglement, Hawksbills have been heavily targeted for their shell. Even though it’s illegal, the black market trade persists. They also face issues like coral reef degradation (their feeding grounds) due to climate change (coral bleaching) and coastal development.
• Conservation: Hawksbill turtles are protected under CITES and the Endangered Species Act. Conservation efforts include protecting nesting beaches (e.g., patrolling against poachers), rehabilitating injured individuals (many rehab centers in Florida occasionally treat Hawksbills hurt by entanglements or boat strikes), and reducing bycatch (turtle excluder devices in shrimp trawls help). There’s also focus on reef conservation. Since healthy coral reefs provide better feeding habitat for Hawksbills. Worldwide, only a few strongholds remain (e.g., parts of the Caribbean). Conservationists are working to eliminate the demand for tortoiseshell by educating consumers and encouraging use of alternatives.

Because of their rarity, seeing a Hawksbill in Florida (often while diving or snorkeling on a reef) is a special experience. If you do, enjoy it from a respectful distance. They are generally unaggressive but are small compared to other sea turtles, and easily stressed. Their contribution to reef ecosystems cannot be overstated. As “gardeners of the reef,” they help ensure the resilience and diversity of coral communities.

Learn more at our Hawksbill Sea Turtle page.

30. Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)

• Family: Cheloniidae
• Scientific Name: Lepidochelys kempii
• Adult Size: ~25 inches (about 62 cm)
• Weight: 75 to 100 lbs (34 to 45 kg)
• Lifespan: ~30 years (possibly more, but they mature at around 10-15 years)
• Conservation Status: Critically Endangered (the most endangered sea turtle)
• Habitat: Primarily the Gulf of Mexico; shallow coastal waters with muddy or sandy bottoms. Juveniles often range along Atlantic coast up to the northeastern US.
• Clutch Size: 100 to 110 eggs; usually 2-3 nests per season
• Food: Carnivorous – crabs are a favorite (especially blue crabs), also other crustaceans, clams, mussels, jellyfish, and fish
• Appearance: A small, grayish-green round shell. Kemp’s Ridleys have a distinct almost circular carapace when viewed from above. The plastron is pale yellow. They have a slightly hooked beak and powerful jaws for crushing crab shells.

Kemp’s Ridley is famous (or infamous) for being the rarest sea turtle on Earth. It has a very restricted nesting range. Almost all Kemp’s Ridley nesting occurs on a single stretch of beach at Rancho Nuevo, Tamaulipas in Mexico. They have a unique nesting behavior: they nest in mass synchronized events called arribadas (meaning “arrival” in Spanish).

During an arribada, hundreds or thousands of females come ashore simultaneously over a span of a day or two to nest. An incredible spectacle that historically happened with Kemp’s Ridleys but was not documented by scientists until a now-famous amateur film from 1947 showed roughly 40,000 Kemp’s Ridleys nesting in one day. By the 1980s, however, fewer than 500 nests were being laid annually. This is a catastrophic decline due largely to egg overharvesting and bycatch in shrimp trawls.

Conservation efforts (including nest protection and a US/Mexico collaborative head-start program) have helped the species rebound somewhat, but they are still critically endangered. Today, a few thousand nests are recorded each year in Mexico, and Texas has a small but growing number of Kemp’s Ridley nests (a result of reintroduction efforts). In Florida, Kemp’s Ridleys are not known to nest regularly, but they do inhabit Florida waters, especially the Gulf Coast. They can sometimes be spotted in the shallow waters off southwest Florida feeding on crabs. Juveniles also turn up regularly in northeast Florida and the Atlantic side, likely carried by currents.

Kemp’s Ridleys are diurnal and prefer muddy bottoms where they can easily find and crush crabs. Their favorite prey. They often hunt in relatively shallow water (less than 100 feet). Because of their dietary preference, they frequently get hooked on fishing lines targeting crabs or caught in bottom trawls. Mexico and Texas both enforce seasonal fishing closures and require turtle excluder devices to reduce these threats.

• Threats: Accidental capture in shrimp trawl nets is historically the biggest threat. Thousands of Kemp’s were killed this way (TEDs are now mandatory to help turtles escape nets). They are also vulnerable to oil spills (the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010 occurred in prime Kemp’s habitat and killed many) and other pollution in the Gulf. Climate change also poses a future threat by skewing hatchling sex ratios (like all sea turtles, warmer sands produce more females).
• Conservation: Kemp’s Ridley turtles are protected by Mexican and US law. Nesting beaches in Mexico are heavily guarded during nesting season. Eggs are often collected and incubated in protected corrals to ensure high hatch success and then hatchlings are released. There have been head-starting programs (raising hatchlings in captivity for a year before release to improve survival). Internationally, Kemp’s are on CITES Appendix I (no trade). Public awareness campaigns stress that if fishermen accidentally catch a Ridley, it should be released and reported. Continued conservation is critical. Although their numbers have increased since the 1980s low point, Kemp’s Ridley is still at very high risk, being essentially a single-population species.

Seeing a Kemp’s Ridley in Florida is uncommon but not impossible, especially if you spend time fishing or boating in the Gulf. They are the only sea turtle that is mainly active during the day (most others often nest at night), so if Kemp’s did ever nest in Florida, it might even be spotted in daylight (they typically nest in the late morning in Mexico, unusual for sea turtles). If you ever suspect you found a Kemp’s nest or a stranded Kemp’s turtle, authorities should be notified immediately due to their conservation status.

Read more at our Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle page.

31. Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)

• Family: Dermochelyidae (Leatherback is the only extant species in this family)
• Scientific Name: Dermochelys coriacea
• Adult Size: 6 to 7 feet (1.8 to 2.1 m) in shell length
• Weight: 550 to 1500 lbs (250 to 680 kg), making it the heaviest reptile other than some crocodiles
• Lifespan: ~30 years (possibly more, but exact longevity is not well documented)
• Conservation Status: Vulnerable (globally), though many subpopulations are declining
• Habitat: Pelagic (open ocean) – they range farther than any other turtle, into cold waters. Nest on tropical and subtropical beaches. Florida’s east coast (especially Palm Beach County northward) is a regular nesting area in spring.
• Clutch Size: ~100 to 110 eggs per nest
• Food: Specialize in eating jellyfish and other gelatinous plankton (tunicates, etc.)
• Appearance: Unlike other turtles, Leatherbacks have no hard shell. Instead, they have a leathery, rubbery skin with embedded tiny bone plates. The body is teardrop-shaped and black with white speckles. Seven long ridges run down the back of an adult Leatherback. Front flippers are exceptionally long (often ~8 feet span) and lack claws.

The Leatherback is a true ocean wanderer, they routinely migrate thousands of miles. They tolerate colder water better than any other reptile (they have adaptations like a thick layer of fatty insulation and a counter-current heat exchange system in their flippers). Leatherbacks dive deeper (often over 1000 feet, and recorded past 3000 feet) and longer than other sea turtles in pursuit of jellyfish. They are, simply put, marvels of evolution, perfectly suited to a life chasing jellies across open oceans.

Florida’s Atlantic coast is one of the few places in the continental US where Leatherbacks nest (primarily from March to June). They are the first sea turtles to begin nesting each year, usually kicking off in early spring. A notable portion of Florida’s Leatherback nests occur in Palm Beach County, Martin County, and nearby areas. A remarkable aspect of Leatherbacks: females often lay clutches of infertile “yolkless” eggs along with the normal eggs, possibly to help maintain moisture in the nest.

Unlike other sea turtles, Leatherbacks do not have a rigid shell for protection, but their sheer size (and perhaps a degree of agility) means adults have few natural predators (mostly large sharks or orcas). Sadly, human activity poses severe risks: Leatherbacks commonly ingest plastic bags, mistaking them for jellyfish When they do that it creates a blockage that can be fatal. They also often get caught on longline fishing hooks or entangled in lobster and crab pot lines.

• Threats: Ingestion of plastic is a huge threat. Studies have found a high percentage of Leatherbacks have plastic in their digestive system. Also, because they roam so far, they face fisheries bycatch in international waters. Egg poaching is a problem in some parts of the world (though not in Florida). On developed beaches, they are less affected by lights (they tend to nest on darker beaches), but coastal armoring (seawalls, etc.) reduces suitable nesting habitat. Climate change is a looming threat, altering ocean currents (which could affect jellyfish distribution) and warming beaches (which could lead to skewed sex ratios).
• Conservation: Leatherbacks are protected by international agreements. Many countries have Leatherback monitoring and nest protection programs. Florida monitors all Leatherback nests and protects them by law. Globally, efforts like regulating longline fisheries (e.g., using circle hooks and time-area closures) have shown some success in reducing Leatherback bycatch. The public can help by reducing plastic use and participating in beach cleanups. Fewer plastics in the ocean means safer Leatherbacks. In the Pacific, Leatherback populations have plummeted, but the Atlantic populations (including those that nest in Florida) have been holding steadier, partly thanks to conservation actions on nesting beaches and at-sea.

Leatherbacks are often considered a flagship species for ocean conservation due to their wide range and the fact that saving them requires international cooperation. Seeing a Leatherback in person, whether at sea or nesting at night, is an unforgettable experience. They truly look like ancient leviathans, more like a giant rubbery boat than a typical turtle.

For more info, visit our Leatherback Sea Turtle page.

32. Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta)

• Family: Cheloniidae
• Scientific Name: Caretta caretta
• Adult Size: 30 to 45 inches (75 to 115 cm)
• Weight: ~155 pounds on average (70 kg), but can reach over 300 lbs (136 kg)
• Lifespan: 70 to 80 years (estimated)
• Conservation Status: Endangered
• Habitat: Coastal waters, especially subtropical and temperate regions. Juveniles often in open ocean (floating in sargassum seaweed), adults in shallow continental shelf areas and estuaries. Nest on subtropical beaches (Florida is one of the prime nesting areas globally).
• Clutch Size: 100 to 125 eggs; females nest multiple times (usually 3-5 clutches in a season)
• Food: Carnivorous – diet mainly consists of hard-shelled prey like crabs, conchs, whelks, and other mollusks and crustaceans. They have extremely strong jaws to crush shells.
• Appearance: Largest hard-shelled turtle. Big head (hence the name “loggerhead”) with powerful jaws. Carapace is usually a reddish-brown color, heart-shaped when viewed from above. The plastron is pale yellow. Adults often have barnacles or other growth on their shells.

The Loggerhead is the most common sea turtle in Florida waters and the one you’re most likely to encounter if you spend time at sea or on the beach during nesting season. Florida’s beaches host tens of thousands of loggerhead nests each summer (April through September). It’s the largest nesting assemblage of loggerheads in the world. On a good night in June, some beaches can have hundreds of loggerheads crawling ashore. These turtles show high nest site fidelity to regions (many that hatch in Florida return to Florida decades later to nest).

Loggerheads reach sexual maturity around 30-35 years old. They undertake migrations between feeding grounds and nesting beaches. A female loggerhead might nest in Florida, then return to feeding grounds perhaps in the Bahamas or Gulf of Mexico, and come back two years later to nest again. Males rarely come ashore (they spend their entire lives at sea after hatching).

In the water, loggerheads are often solitary. They sometimes hang around reef or rock outcrops, where there are plenty of crustaceans to crunch on. Juvenile loggerheads, on the other hand, often ride the currents far out in the Atlantic, living in floating mats of sargassum seaweed and feeding on small invertebrates there.

Florida’s loggerhead population has unfortunately shown some declines over past decades, attributed to factors such as fisheries bycatch and loss of nests to beach development and erosion. Incidental capture in fishing gear (nets, longlines, and crab pots) is a significant source of mortality. Many loggerheads also suffer injuries from boat propellers, as they often swim near the surface in coastal areas.

• Threats: Bycatch in fishing gear (they can get caught in shrimp trawls if TEDs aren’t used, or hooked on longlines intended for fish). Entanglement in discarded fishing line or debris, ingestion of marine debris (like plastic bags which may resemble jellyfish or other prey). Loggerheads are also affected by coastal pollution and red tide events (toxic algal blooms) that can poison their prey. Additionally, being cold-blooded, they can suffer “cold stunning” during sudden cold snaps in some areas (less an issue in Florida but happens to juveniles that end up in cooler waters).
• Conservation: Florida has extensive conservation efforts: nests are monitored by volunteers and researchers, and measures are taken to reduce artificial lighting on nesting beaches (since disoriented hatchlings often crawl toward city lights instead of the sea). Turtle excluder devices (TEDs) on shrimp trawlers are required by law to allow turtles to escape nets. Many organizations rehabilitate injured loggerheads; for example, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach treats many turtles and then releases them. Public awareness campaigns (e.g., “Watch for Sea Turtles” road signs near nesting beaches, and educational programs for boaters) aim to reduce human impacts. Thanks to these efforts, Florida’s loggerhead nest counts have shown signs of improvement in recent years, although global populations are still at risk.

Loggerhead hatchlings face a gauntlet of predators (raccoons, ghost crabs, birds, fish) and only about 1 in 1000 is thought to reach adulthood. Protecting adults is crucial because each adult female can produce thousands of eggs over her lifetime, keeping the population going. One poignant fact: the temperature of the sand where eggs incubate determines the sex of the hatchlings. Warmer nests produce more females, cooler nests produce more males. With climate warming, there’s concern we may get disproportionate female hatchlings in the future.

For further reading, visit our Loggerhead Sea Turtle page.

Conservation Efforts in Florida

Florida has become a leader in turtle conservation, and not just for sea turtles. From local laws protecting Gopher Tortoise burrows to the network of turtle hospitals caring for sick and injured sea turtles, numerous efforts are helping safeguard these reptiles. Organizations like the Sea Turtle Conservancy focus on protecting beaches critical to loggerheads and other sea turtles, addressing threats such as habitat loss and human interference. Public turtle walks (often organized in June and July by parks and nature centers) let people witness nesting without disturbing the turtles, raising awareness and support for conservation.

The Florida Keys are another focal point. As mentioned, all five sea turtle species (loggerhead, Kemp’s, Hawksbill, Green, and Leatherback) utilize the Keys for feeding or nesting. Conservation groups in the Keys actively work to rehabilitate turtles, remove ocean trash, and lobby for turtle-friendly practices (like reef-safe boating and fishing).

It’s also worth noting the fascinating interplay of climate and turtle biology. For example, the sex of turtle hatchlings is determined by incubation temperature. Warmer sands produce females, cooler produce males. As climate change warms beaches, this could lead to disproportionately female hatchlings in the future. This is a growing concern among conservationists, and some are experimenting with shade cloths or sprinkling water on nests to keep them cooler.

Each of us can help Florida’s turtles in simple ways: by keeping beaches clean and dark during nesting season (no litter, fill in sandcastles/holes after playing, turn off beachfront lights at night), by safely disposing of fishing line and hooks (to prevent entanglement), and by supporting turtle conservation groups. The collective impact of these small actions is significant. Florida’s rich biodiversity, exemplified by its many turtle species is a treasure worth protecting for future generations.

Conclusion

Well, there we go! In this extensive list, we’ve covered the 32 species of turtles found in Florida. Twenty-six of these species are freshwater turtles, including box turtles, snapping turtles, softshells, cooters, as well as mud and musk turtles. Florida’s freshwater turtles range from tiny Spotted Turtles to sizable Alligator Snapping Turtles.

For each species, we provided basic identification and care information to help prospective keepers make informed decisions. Remember, some species (like Alligator Snapping Turtles, Barbour’s Map Turtles, Red-eared Sliders, and Suwannee Cooters) either cannot be legally kept or are not recommended as pets due to conservation status or special needs. Always check Florida’s wildlife regulations before acquiring any turtle.

We also highlighted a few of Florida’s endangered turtles that cannot be kept as pets, such as the Gopher Tortoise and the five types of sea turtles that visit Florida’s shores. For these species, having some knowledge helps you appreciate and protect them if you encounter one in the wild (for instance, knowing to let a nesting sea turtle be, or how to help a Gopher Tortoise cross the road safely).

A point to note is the impact of climate change on Florida’s turtles. Warming temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and rising sea levels are already influencing turtle habitat and nesting patterns. For example, as mentioned, a warmer nest environment produces more female hatchlings. This feminization trend is being observed and is a growing concern among researchers. Additionally, stronger storms and erosion can destroy nests or alter beaches drastically.

In conclusion, Florida’s diverse turtle species, from invasive transplants in suburban ponds to ancient mariners on the endangered species list reflect the state’s rich biodiversity. By understanding these turtles’ needs and the challenges they face, we can all contribute to their conservation. Whether it’s providing proper care to a pet turtle, volunteering in a beach cleanup, or simply educating others, every action helps. With proper stewardship, we can ensure that these remarkable reptiles continue to thrive in Florida’s wild places and imaginations for generations to come.

Have you spotted a turtle in Florida that isn’t on this list? Feel free to share your encounter or ask questions in the comments below – there’s always more to learn about Florida’s turtles!

Other nearby states’ turtles: If you’re curious about turtles beyond Florida, check out our guides to Turtles in Alabama, Turtles in Georgia, Tortoises in Georgia, Turtles in Louisiana, and Turtles in Mississippi to see how Florida’s turtle fauna compares.

Sources

1. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission – Gopher Tortoise Commensals (explains how gopher tortoise burrows support >350 other species)

2. Olive Ridley Project – “Why are hawksbill turtles critically endangered?” (July 2025 update) – confirms roughly 8,000 nesting female Hawksbills remain globally and details threats (bycatch, shell trade, etc.)

3. Reptiles Magazine – “New Rules For Florida Herp Owners In 2008” (Site Staff, 2011) – outlines Florida’s July 2007 ban on acquiring Red-eared Sliders (listed as Conditional species)

4. Florida FWC – Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle Profile – notes Kemp’s Ridley is the world’s most endangered turtle and provides size/diet info