Fun Facts on Pacific Pond Turtles in Canada

Pacific pond turtles, also known as Northern pond turtles, were once the pride of Canada. However, they have now been extirpated, which means that--though they were once endemic to Canada--they are now found elsewhere. Today, Pacific pond turtles are found in different parts of North America, especially in northwestern parts of the United States, but not in Canada. They are on the endangered species list.

  1. Appearance

    • Northern Pacific pond turtle have a characteristically drab coloration. Some subspecies may have yellow and red colored markings on them, but for most, the color of the carapace, or the shell, ranges from dark brown to black. The scales on the body are very large and easily noticeable. Only when you come close can you notice the marbled pattern on the shell.

    Behavior

    • Pacific pond turtles are extremely shy creatures and, though they may appear tough, they actually shy away from humans and other animals, which they consider to be predators. They also have exceptionally good eyesight and can see both people and animals from great distances. At the slightest sign of danger, they quickly run away and hide, disappearing under the underwater foliage.

    Feeding Habits

    • Pacific pond turtles are omnivorous and feed on aquatic plants, animals and insects. The turtles may feed on small frogs, fish, larvae and other small animals that live underwater. For reasons unknown, Pacific pond turtles only feed when they are underwater. This is unlike other amphibians that can feed on land, too.

    Age

    • Turtles are known to be the longest living animals. Some species of turtles can live more than 200 years. However, Pacific pond turtles are known to live not more than 40 years. According to the Oregon Zoo, some Pacific pond turtles may live up to a ripe age of 70. Though this seems less when compared to the life span of the overall species, it is much more than the life span of many other amphibians and reptiles.

    Reproduction

    • Female Pacific pond turtles are very particular about where they nest. They are known to travel large distances for building their nests. Female turtles reach sexual maturity when they are about 10 to 15 years old. They lay a clutch of six to eight eggs, which are incubated for a period of 90 to 180 days, after which they hatch.