Diamondback Terrapin
(Malaclemys terrapin)
Photo Courtesy of World Chelonia Trust
The diamondback terrapin is the only turtle in North America that lives entirely in brackish water. Diamondback terrapins can be found from southern New England to the Gulf of Mexico. In New York they can mostly be found on Long Island.
Diamondback terrapins are generally about nine inches in length with females being slightly larger than males. The carapace is black and gray that form a diamond-like pattern. The plastron is green to yellow in color.
The word terrapin is derived from an Algonquin word meaning "edible turtles that live in brackish water." In the late 19th century many populations were decimated for the food industry.
Diamondback terrapins feed mostly on mollusks like snails, clams, and mussels.
Females reach sexual maturity in 8 to 13 years while males are sexually mature in only four to seven years. Diamondback terrapins can have a life expectancy of about 40 years.
Mating occurs in the water at night in May or June. Female diamondback terrapins can store sperm for up to four years. Nests are generally dug in sandy rims above the high tide mark. Nests are a six inch deep hole in the sand. After the nest is dug 5 to 22 eggs are laid and will hatch in 60 to 100 days. The eggs can also over-winter in the nest. Eggs and hatchlings are prone to predation by mammals and birds. Road crossings and boat propellers can also prove dangerous to diamondback terrapins as well.