Wood Turtle

SCIENTIFIC NAME

Glyptemys insculpta

DESCRIPTION

The Wood Turtle’s upper shell has raised, pyramidal shapes with visible concentric growth rings that resembles wood. There is distinct orange colouring on its neck and forelegs.

RANGE

Southern Ontario, southern Québec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia

HABITAT

Wood Turtles live in moderately flowing, meandering streams and rivers with sandy or gravelly bottoms. They also make use of open areas such as meadows and hayfields as well as forested areas within a few hundred metres of the river. Females nest in open areas close to the river or on sand and gravel bars along the river. In winter, Wood Turtles hibernate under water on the bottoms of rivers.

DIET

BEHAVIOUR

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PRIMARY ECOSYSTEM ROLES