Spotted Turtle
Clemmys guttata
The Spotted Turtle is a small black freshwater turtle covered with bright yellow dots and found in scattered shallow wetlands in northern and central Florida.
Spotted Turtles use shallow marshes, wet meadows, boggy ponds, ditches, and swamp edges with soft bottoms and abundant vegetation. Florida populations are scattered and difficult to locate.
They become active in cool spring weather, bask on logs or vegetation, and may leave the water to reach another wetland. During hot or dry periods they often retreat into mud, vegetation, or woodland cover.
Habitat:
Freshwater Wetlands, Lakes and Ponds, Forests and Woodlands, Canals and Ditches
Area / Range:
Florida Panhandle, North Florida, Central Florida
Diet:
It eats snails, worms, aquatic insects, crayfish, tadpoles, small fish, and some aquatic vegetation.
Behavior:
Spotted Turtles bask quietly, forage in shallow water, and travel over land between wetlands. They are most active during mild spring conditions.
Day
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Mild spring mornings near shallow, vegetated wetlands. Watch roads carefully during wet weather.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Declining across much of its range because of wetland loss, road mortality, and illegal collection. It is not federally listed as threatened or endangered.
Safety Level:
Low Risk
Safety Information:
It does not bite unless handled. Like other turtles, it can carry Salmonella. Observe without touching and never move it to a different wetland.
Benefits to Property:
It consumes snails, insect larvae, and carrion while moving nutrients through shallow wetland habitats.
Property Concerns:
It causes no meaningful property damage. Mowing near wetland edges and vehicles on nearby roads create hazards for traveling turtles.
Fun Fact:
The number and placement of yellow shell spots vary by individual, and some older turtles lose spots as the shell wears.
Wildlife Laws:
Collection and possession of native freshwater turtles are regulated in Florida. Protected lands often prohibit take. Leave wild turtles in place and check current FWC rules before any handling.
Identification:
The smooth black shell carries small round yellow spots. Yellow or orange spots also mark the head and limbs. Adults remain much smaller than most cooters and sliders.
Credits:
Facts: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Images: primary and secondary.