Meet the diamondback terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin), a bedotted turtle that thrives in our estuaries.
What makes them unique?
Diamondback terrapins are the only turtle species in North America that live exclusively in brackish water, the places where fresh and saltwater mix. Their muscular legs and webbed toes make them excellent swimmers. Special glands near their eyes help them excrete excess salt, which allows them to adapt to changing salinity.
- Size and appearance:
- Females: Larger, averaging about 11 inches long, with shorter tails
- Males: Smaller, reaching about 5.5 inches long
- Weight: Typically 300 to 500 grams (10 to 17 ounces)
- Diet: Mostly carnivores, terrapins feast on snails, crabs, oysters, scallops, mussels, fish, worms, and insects. Occasionally, they will nibble on plants.
- Range and habitat: These turtles bask in salt marshes, mangroves, estuaries, and creeks along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of North America. When temperatures drop, they bury themselves in mud at the bottom of waterways until spring warmth calls them back to the surface.
- Conservation note: Diamondback terrapins are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, which means their future depends on protecting their coastal habitats.
Celebrate Dots with Us on September 1, 2025 at 1:00 pm ET
Want to see a terrapin up close? Meet them during our free Dive into Dot Day event.
Inspired by The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds, this interactive program will celebrate the dazzling dots of our diamondback terrapins and the many patterns found in ocean life. Families, homeschoolers, learning pods, libraries, and elementary learners can join us to:
- Discover how fish, turtles, and other sea creatures use spots, stripes, and camouflage
- Explore the science of marine life with Mote educators
- Create your own ocean-themed masterpiece in a guided art activity
🎨 How will you celebrate #InternationalDotDay?
📬 Keep in Touch
📧 Send questions to marven@mote.org
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