Painted Turtle Information

Painted turtles are considered the most widely distributed turtle species in North America. They are found all over the United States in bogs, marshes, rivers, lakes and streams.

  1. Size

    • Painted turtles are smallish turtles, ranging in size from 4 to 10 inches long. They have green/black skin, and shells that are striped with yellow and red markings, giving them their name.

    Nature

    • Painted turtles are somewhat social animals and can be found basking in the sun in groups of 50 or more.

    Habitat

    • Painted turtles are an aquatic turtle species and spend a great deal of time in the water. This turtle will also spend a great deal of time basking in the sun to rid itself of parasites and to regulate body temperature.

    Feeding Habits

    • Painted turtles are primarily carnivorous, eating earthworms, crayfish, bugs and fish. They will eat algae and some flowering plants.

    Hibernation

    • Painted turtles are extremely well adapted to cold weather and can be found hibernating during cold months. They will emerge in spring to mate.