Blanding’s Turtle
Common Name: Blanding’s Turtle
Scientific Name: Emydoidea blandingii
Names: Mr Pickles
Locations: Whitby, Vaughan & London
Diet
Blanding’s Turtles are omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods including aquatic invertebrates, insects, small fish, amphibians, and aquatic vegetation.
Average lifespan
Blanding’s Turtles can live up to 70 to 80 years in the wild, with some individuals exceeding 90 years.
Size
Adult Blanding’s Turtles typically have a shell length of 18 to 25 centimeters (7 to 10 inches).
Weight
They generally weigh between 1 to 2 kilograms (2.2 to 4.4 pounds).
About
Blanding’s Turtles are semi-aquatic turtles native to North America, particularly found in the Great Lakes region and northeastern parts of the United States and Canada. They inhabit shallow wetlands, marshes, and ponds with abundant vegetation. Their high-domed shells are dark with yellow speckles, and they have bright yellow throats, which make them easily recognizable.
Size and behavior
Blanding’s Turtles are known for their semi-aquatic lifestyle, often basking on logs or rocks but also venturing onto land to forage or nest. They are relatively slow-moving and cautious, retreating to the water when disturbed. They are diurnal and most active during the day.
Diet and nutrition
As omnivores, Blanding’s Turtles consume both animal and plant matter. In the wild, they feed on aquatic invertebrates, small fish, tadpoles, and aquatic plants. In captivity or rehabilitation, their diet should include protein sources such as worms or fish, supplemented with greens and vegetables to mimic their natural diet.
Conservation status
Blanding’s Turtles are listed as Endangered or Threatened in many parts of their range due to habitat destruction, road mortality, and predation on their nests by mammals such as raccoons and foxes. Conservation efforts include habitat restoration, protection of nesting sites, and public education to reduce human impacts.
Fun fact
Blanding’s Turtles are known for their “perpetual smile” due to the shape of their mouths. This endearing feature, combined with their long lifespan, has made them a species of great interest in conservation biology. Additionally, they have a remarkable ability to survive in cold climates, remaining active under the ice in winter.
Call or visit your local Reptilia Facility to learn how you can adopt one of these amazing reptiles.
