Diamondback Terrapin Care: Keeping the USA's Most Unique Turtle

bronxzoofrank

New Member
Messages
270
Location
NY
Hi, Frank Indiviglio here. I’m a herpetologist, zoologist, and book author, recently retired from a career spent at several zoos, aquariums, and museums, including over 20 years with the Bronx Zoo.
The Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin) is often described as the most beautiful turtle in the Western Hemisphere, if not the world. It is also distinguished by being the only turtle adapted to life in estuaries, salt marshes and other brackish habitats (water that is neither fresh nor marine). Long considered a delicate pet, the needs of this spectacular animal are now well-understood, and captive-bred specimens are increasingly available. My first Diamondback, received in childhood, was a hatchling. That ill-fated creature was quickly consumed by a Blue-Claw Crab (long story!), but later experiences with this species in the wild, at home and in zoos has (hopefully!) enlightened me as to their proper care. We still have much to learn, however, so please post your own observations below. Read the rest of this article here Diamondback Terrapin Care | That Reptile Blog
Please also check out my posts on Twitter http://bitly.com/JP27Nj and Facebook http://on.fb.me/KckP1m

My Bio, with photos of animals I’ve been lucky enough to work with: That Pet Place Welcomes Frank Indiviglio | That Reptile Blog

Best Regards, Frank
 

indyana

Well-Known Member
Messages
2,336
Location
Massachusetts, United States
Beautiful turtles! Diamondback Terrapins are protected in MA and cannot be kept as pets, but I've enjoyed seeing many at nature centers over the years. When I was younger, the Museum of Science had a beautiful female whose skin was white with black speckles.
 

bronxzoofrank

New Member
Messages
270
Location
NY
Beautiful turtles! Diamondback Terrapins are protected in MA and cannot be kept as pets, but I've enjoyed seeing many at nature centers over the years. When I was younger, the Museum of Science had a beautiful female whose skin was white with black speckles.

Thanks! here in NY there is, unfortunately, an open season on collecting for the food trade...season is in fall/winter,..keeps smaller harvesters away, but clamming-type boats can scoop them from hibernation sites. Pet keeping here requires a license. Enjoy, best, Frank
 

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