t3040 ~ Blandings Turtle ~ Emys blandingii

Photographed (2007) in Allegan County, Michigan.

The Blanding's Turtle is a medium sized turtle. An adult's carapace lengths ranging from 6 to 11 inches (15 to 28 cm). The carapace is usually black with yellowish spots and streaks and is dome like, elongated, and smooth. This turtle species typically has a plastron that is yellow with a dark blotch at the outer corner of each scute or scale. The Blanding's Turtle has a very long neck and a bright yellow chin and throat. The head is dark with brown or yellow spots, and is relatively flat with a short, rounded snout and a notched upper jaw, which gives the appearance of a permanent grin. Some of this information is from the Michigan Natural Features Inventory website.

Michigan T/E List Status: Special Concern (SC)

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