Northern Map Turtle
Graptemys geographica
Northern map turtles inhabit rivers, large streams, and lakes with ample basking logs and clean, well-oxygenated water. They are wary baskers that slip quickly into the water when disturbed, and they feed mainly on aquatic insects, snails, crayfish, and other small invertebrates, with larger females able to crush harder prey. The pale, map-like lines on the carapace give the species its common name. Females grow much larger than males, an important trait linked to their broader heads and stronger crushing jaws.
- Type
- Shell / Water
- Conservation status
- LC
Growth chain
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- Northern Map Turtle