Turtles in North Dakota

North Dakota is often called the “Geographical center of the US” and is part of the Great Plains. Most of the state is covered in grasslands, with a few mountains, hills, and valleys dotted throughout. Several rivers flow through the state, including the Red River in the north and the Missouri River in the west, as well as multiple lakes like Lake Agassiz, Lake Winnipeg, Devils Lake, and the artificial Lake Sakakawea. Despite this, there are only a handful of turtles here. Some notable ones include the Common Snapping Turtle, the False Map Turtle, and the Midland Smooth Softshell.

Types of Turtles Found in North Dakota

Snapping Turtles (Chelydridae)

• Common Snapping Turtle

Emydid Turtles (Emydidae)

Painted Turtles

• Eastern Painted Turtle
• Western Painted Turtle 

Map Turtles

• False Map Turtle

Softshell Turtles (Trionychidae)

• Midland Smooth Softshell
• Spiny Softshell

FAQ