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Spotted Turtle

Clemmys guttata

The Spotted Turtle has tiny yellow spots on its dark shell, making it look like a starry night! They enjoy warm, sunny days.

Habitat: Wetlands and shallow waters

Appearance

The Spotted Turtle is a small reptile, easily recognized by its smooth, dark black or brown shell covered in bright yellow or orange spots. Its head and limbs also often bear yellow spots, making it stand out from other freshwater turtles.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassTestudinesOrderTestudinesFamilyEmydidaeGenusClemmys
Spotted Turtle
wildlife trait badgeomnivorous trait badgewetland trait badgearmored trait badge
Spotted Turtle

Category

Reptiles

Rarity

Common

Danger

2/5 · Low

Snaps

36

Interesting facts

Despite their small size, they can live for over 30 years in the wild.

Each turtle's unique pattern of spots is like a fingerprint; no two are exactly alike.

Their bright spots may help camouflage them among sun-dappled aquatic plants.

They are one of the earliest turtles to emerge in spring, sometimes when there's still ice!

Special abilities

Ability

Cold Master

Spotted Turtles can be active in near-freezing water because their bodies tolerate cold better than many other reptiles.

Ability

Mud Hider

Spotted Turtles can burrow into mud or sand to escape extreme heat or cold, staying safe and hidden.

Ability

Webbed Swimmer

Spotted Turtles have webbed feet that help them glide effortlessly through shallow water as they search for food.

Measurements & details

Length
10-12.5 cm
Weight
0.15-0.23 kg
Lifespan
15-30 years
Swim Speed
1.5 km/h
Clutch Size
2-8
Incubation
70-83 days

Diet & Feeding

Spotted Turtles are opportunistic eaters, feasting on small creatures and plants found in their watery homes.

Age differences: Younger turtles tend to eat more protein (insects/worms), while adults consume more plant matter.

Primary Foods

  • insect larvae
  • small worms
  • snails
  • tadpoles
  • aquatic plants
  • algae

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Mosaic Turtle

Safety

Danger

2/5 · Low

Look but don’t touch. Keep a safe distance and wash hands after exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Spotted Turtle?

Compare shell shape, shell markings, head stripes and the shape of the feet. Wear, age and algae can hide shell patterns. Turtle Identifier: upload a photo and compare the visible details.

How long is Spotted Turtle?

10-12.5 cm

How much does Spotted Turtle weigh?

0.15-0.23 kg

How long does Spotted Turtle live?

15-30 years

What does Spotted Turtle eat?

Spotted Turtles are opportunistic eaters, feasting on small creatures and plants found in their watery homes.

How fast can Spotted Turtle swim?

1.5 km/h

Where is Spotted Turtle usually found?

Wetlands and shallow waters

How does Spotted Turtle hunt?

Foraging

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