Western Pond Turtle
Source: U. S.
Geological Survey/photo by Chris Brown
Scientific Name: Clemmys marmorata
Family: Emydidae
Size: 4.7 - 7.2 inches
Description: The upper part of the shell (carapace) is smooth and has a brown, black, and olive-green pattern The legs, head, and neck are usually olive green or yellow with brown or black lines or spots.
Diet: Western pond turtles eat small insects, aquatic invertebrates, fish, frogs, snakes, birds, and mammals.
Habitat: Western pond turtles live in ponds, streams, lakes, ditches, and marshes.
Status: Federal Species of Concern.
Interesting Information: The western pond turtle, like other California turtles, hibernates in winter.
References:
National Audubon Society. 1998. Field Guide to California. Peter Alden et al. Alfred A. Knopf, Inc.
U.S.Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center
