Diamondback Terrapin

Diamondback terrapins live in saltwater marshes, canals and bays and may be observed on beaches or sandy dune areas during their nesting season.

Their skin is spotted, with large black dots covering their pale or brownish bodies. Their name comes from the shell pattern of concentric diamond shaped rings on their carapace.

Diamond terrapins eat snails found on marsh grasses, crabs, clams and other marine invertebrates.

They are generally only seen outside of the water during nesting or as hatchlings leaving the nest. Females can be twice the size of a male terrapin and nesting occurs from May through July.

Diamondback Terrapin Rules and Regulations

Size Limit : Must measure 6 inches or more in carapace length
Bag and Possession Limit : Legal during all months except between the dates of April 15 – June 15
Special Rules : It is illegal to take this species by trap of any kind.
General Info:
Related Habitats:
Other Aquatic Reptile Species: Leatherback Sea Turtle Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle Softshell Turtles Redear Slider Turtle Alligator Snapping Turtle Eastern Snapping Turtle American Alligator Loggerhead Sea Turtle
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