Turtles in South Dakota

While South Dakota is located in the American Midwest, there are a few freshwater bodies that can support turtles. These include natural sources like the Missouri River and the Black Stone Lake and artificial sources created by dams like Lake Oahe and Lake Sharpe. Some notable species include the Common Snapping Turtle, the Ornate Box Turtle, and the Midland Smooth Softshell.

Types of Turtles Found in South Dakota

Snapping Turtles (Chelydridae)

• Common Snapping Turtle

Emydid Turtles (Emydidae)

Painted Turtles

• Western Painted Turtle

Map Turtles

• False Map Turtle

Blanding’s Turtles

•  Blanding’s Turtle

Box Turtles

• Ornate Box Turtle
• Western Box Turtle

Softshell Turtles (Trionychidae)

• Midland Smooth Softshell
• Western Spiny Softshell

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