Spotted Turtle – 7/28/17

Observer: Kurt Buermann

Observation Date: 7/28/17

Observation Location: King Philips Trail, Sharon

Common Name: Spotted Turtle

Scientific Name: Clemmys guttata

Comments: Rare in Massachusetts. Spotted turtles visit vernal pools in spring to feed on amphibian eggs. When the pools dry up in summer, they must trek overland to return to a permanent pond. Unfortunately, this often entails crossing roads.

More Information: Natural History and Endangered Species Program of Massachusetts