Turtles in Pennsylvania

The state of Pennsylvania has several types of habitats. These include coastal plains, mountains, and plateaus. Besides that, several rivers flow through the state, including the Lehigh River, the Mississippi River, and the Susquehanna River, where many freshwater turtles can be observed. Some common turtles living in these environments include the Common Snapping Turtle, the Blanding’s Turtle, and the Wood Turtle.

Types of Turtles Found in Pennsylvania

Snapping Turtles (Chelydridae)

• Common Snapping Turtle

Emydid Turtles (Emydidae)

Painted Turtles

• Painted Turtle

Map Turtles

• Northern Map Turtle

Spotted Turtles

• Spotted Turtle

Blanding’s Turtles

•  Blanding’s Turtle

Cooters

• Northern Red-bellied Cooter

Box Turtles

• Eastern Box Turtle

Glyptemys Turtles

• Bog Turtle
• Wood Turtle

Sliders

• Red-eared Slider
• Yellow-bellied Slider

Mud and Musk Turtles (Kinosternidae)

• Eastern Mud Turtle
• Eastern Musk Turtle (Stinkpot)
• Southeastern Mud Turtle

Softshell Turtles (Trionychidae)

• Midland Smooth Softshell
• Eastern Spiny Softshell 

FAQ

Are there any endangered turtles in Pennsylvania?

The Bog Turtle is federally protected in Pennsylvania.