Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)

Key identification points and similar species:
This brightly colored turtle has intricate yellow markings on head. It will most commonly be mistaken for the False Map Turtle and Red-eared Slider .
1) False Map Turtle has ridge running down middle of shell and the rear edge of shell jagged, not smooth.
2) Red-eared Slider has red mark behind eye.

Description: Carapace olive or brown with faint network of darker pigment. Plastron reddish with central olive and black figure. Two yellow spots on each side of head; yellow stripes on neck and throat. Red stripes down legs.

Habitat: Slow moving streams, ponds, and weedy shallows of lakes.

Size: 12-18 cm (5-7 in)

Diet: Omnivous.

Natural History: Females are typically larger than males. Groups of painted turtles are often seen basking in the sun on floating; basking raises body temperature, which activates enzymes in the turtle’s digestive track.