Bog Turtle
Glyptemys muhlenbergii
Conservation Status:
State Status: Critically Imperiled
State Listing: Endangered
Global Assessment: Critically Endangered
Description
Bog turtles are the smallest turtle species in Connecticut, growing three to four inches long. They have a gray or brown upper shell with rings on each scute. Their skin is black and on each side of the head there is an orange spot. Males are larger than females and have longer tails.
Habitat
These turtles can be found in calcareous
wetlands, bogs, swamps, or streams. There are few populations left in Connecticut.
Behavior
Bog turtles are diurnal, however they are very hard to observe due to their secretive nature. They spend lots of time buried in mud, and will remain there on cool or hot days. Sometimes they will dig out tunnel networks when the temperatures remain high for a while. They are able to survive without
oxygen for long periods of time. Hibernation occurs from September to April. When the temperature is just right, they will emerge and scavenge. They bask in the sun and wait for prey during the daytime. These turtles are very active after rainfall. Males are territorial and will attack others they come across. They primarily eat invertebrates, and are preyed on by snapping turtles, large snakes, and medium sized mammals. They nest early in the summer and lay three to five eggs that will hatch in the early fall.
Range
Present
