Turtles in Kansas

Kansas has several rivers flowing through it and thus can support quite a few species of turtles. These include the Common Snapping Turtle, the Stinkpot Turtle, and the Ornate Box Turtle. The last one is notable as it is the state reptile of Kansas.

Turtles in Kansas (KS)

Types of Turtles Found in Kansas

Snapping Turtles (Chelydridae)

  • Common Snapping Turtle
  • Alligator Snapping Turtle

Emydid Turtles (Emydidae)

Painted Turtles

Map Turtles

  • Northern Map Turtle
  • Ouachita Map Turtle
  • False Map Turtle

Cooters

  • Eastern River Cooter
  • Missouri River Cooter

Box Turtles

Sliders

Mud and Musk Turtles (Kinosternidae)

  • Eastern Musk Turtle (Stinkpot)
  • Yellow Mud Turtle

Softshell Turtles (Trionychidae)

  • Midland Smooth Softshell
  • Western Spiny Softshell

FAQ

Are there any endangered turtles in Kansas?

The Northern Map Turtle is at risk in the state. Also, the Ornate Box Turtle has been hunted by poachers.

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