Turtles in Utah

Utah is a state with a lot of diverse habitats, including deserts, pine forests, and mountains. However, there aren’t many turtles in the state as the conditions do not appear to suit them, as the only notable rivers are the Colorado River and its tributaries. Some Utah turtles include the Common Snapping Turtle, the Mojave Desert Tortoise, the Texas Spiny Softshell, the Mississippi Map Turtle, and the Western Painted Turtle.

Types of Turtles Found in Utah

Snapping Turtles (Chelydridae)

• Common Snapping Turtle

Emydid Turtles (Emydidae)

Painted Turtles

• Western Painted Turtle

Map Turtles

• Mississippi Map Turtle

Sliders

• Red-eared Slider
• Yellow-bellied Slider

Softshell Turtles (Trionychidae)

• Texas Spiny Softshell

Tortoises (Testudinidae)

• Mojave Desert Tortoise

FAQ