Identification, Distribution, and Ecology:
The Blanding’s Turtle is best identified by its bright yellow chin and throat. The front of their shell looks much like a box turtles. Their head is flattened on top and the neck is relatively long. Carapace length in adults averages 6.5 to 8 in (16.5 to 20 cm). In the Midwest the Blandings turtle is viewed as imperiled to all the states in which it is found. Loss of habitat and nesting sites are causing Blanding populations to decrease. They inhabit marshes, creeks, wet prairies, sloughs, and fens, and the edges of lakes and ponds. Crayfish are their primary food item, but they will also feed on insects, fish, frogs, algae, and duckweed.
