Turtles in Colorado

Colorado is covered in deserts and other arid areas. This isn’t ideal for most turtles, but some have adapted to the state’s climate. These include the Western Painted Turtle, the Yellow Mud Turtle, and the Ornate Box Turtle.

Types of Turtles Found in Colorado

Snapping Turtles (Chelydridae)

Common Snapping Turtle

Emydid Turtles (Emydidae)

Painted Turtles

Western Painted Turtle

Map Turtles

Mississippi Map Turtle
Northern False Map Turtle

Box Turtle

Afghan Tortoise
Desert Box Turtle
Ornate Box Turtle
Plains Box Turtle
Three-toed Box Turtle

Siders

Red-eared Slider
Yellow-bellied Slider

Mud and Musk Turtles (Kinosternidae)

Yellow Mud Turtle

Softshell Turtles (Trionychidae)

Midland Smooth Softshell
Northern Spiny Softshell

FAQ

Are there any endangered turtles in Colorado?

While the Yellow Mud Turtle is quite common in most US states, its population in Colorado is at risk as its numbers have declined. There are several reasons behind this, including habitat loss and disease.