Turtles in Michigan

From east to west, Michigan is surrounded by four of the five Great Lakes of America – Lakes Erie, Huron, Michigan, and Superior. This has led to numerous habitats springing up in the state, though sadly, urbanization has claimed many wetlands and forests. Despite this, several turtles call Michigan home, including the Common Snapping Turtle, the Blanding’s Turtle, and the Wood Turtle.

Types of Turtles Found in Michigan

Snapping Turtles (Chelydridae)

• Common Snapping Turtle

Emydid Turtles (Emydidae)

Painted Turtles

• Painted Turtle

Map Turtles

• Northern Map Turtle

Spotted Turtles

• Spotted Turtle

Blanding’s Turtles

• Blanding’s Turtle

Box Turtles

• Eastern Box Turtle

Glyptemys Turtles

• Wood Turtle

Sliders

• Red-eared Slider

Mud and Musk Turtles (Kinosternidae)

• Eastern Musk Turtle (Stinkpot)

Softshell Turtles (Trionychidae)

• Eastern Spiny Softshell 

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