Wood Turtle

Wood turtles can be found basking on grassy hummocks in the shrubby undergrowth along the edges of streams, or foraging out in the adjacent meadows and swamplands. Being semi-aquatic animals, they prefer lowland streams with moderate currents. This slow-moving reptile is easily identified by its carapace, which is comprised of a series of fused tannish-brown plates on the back, and a yellowish-orange bottom surface, with a pattern of black blotches. In Vermont, this species has a natural heritage status of S3, which means it is uncommon and/or there is some threat to its survival. In addition, Vermont’s Wildlife Action Plan has designated the wood turtle as a high priority on its list of Species of Greatest Conservation Need. As a species of special concern, it is recommended that all sightings be reported, and that critical habitats be protected.

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