Common Musk Turtle Habitat

The common musk turtle exists in large numbers throughout many states in the U.S., in part because it does well in many types of aquatic environments. This small turtle has an oval-shaped shell and gets its name from the smelly liquid it emits from its musk glands when threatened.

  1. Terrain

    • The common musk turtle makes its home on flatter stretches of land in aquatic environments where it has access to shallow water. It can be found in lakes, ponds, wetlands and gently running streams, particularly where beds are composed of sand or mud.

    Location

    • The common musk turtle lives along the eastern coast of the U.S., as well as in the Great Lakes region, Illinois, western Kansas, western Oklahoma and central Texas.

    Opportunities to Bask

    • The common musk turtle basks in the sun at times, although it must be cautious that predators don't catch it. Logs in the water, or even tree branches (the musk turtle has been known to climb) can allow for a quick escape from predators.

    Other Habitat Characteristics

    • A musk turtle prefers standing or slow-moving water, because this allows it to forage for food at the bottom and build its nest at the water's edge.

    Threats to Common Musk Turtle Habitat

    • Water pollution from run-off poses a threat to common musk turtle habitat. Drainage of wetlands and littering also pose a threat to its habitat, says the Center for Reptile and Amphibian Conservation and Management.