Turtles in Nevada

Most of Nevada is part of the Great Basin, a mildly arid region in the US, and the Mojave Desert, which contributes to the state being the driest in the country. However, a few rivers, like the Humboldt and Colorado Rivers, pass through Nevada. This means not only the Desert Tortoise lives here but also freshwater turtles like the Common Snapping Turtle, the Red-eared Slider, and the Texas Spiny Softshell.

Turtles in Nevada (NV)

Types of Turtles Found in Nevada

Snapping Turtles (Chelydridae)

  • Common Snapping Turtle

Emydid Turtles (Emydidae)

Painted Turtles

  • Eastern Painted Turtle
  • Western Painted Turtle

Box Turtles

  • Ornate Box Turtle

Pond Turtles

  • Western Pond Turtle

Sliders

  • Red-eared Slider

Mud and Musk Turtles (Kinosternidae)

  • Arizona Mud Turtle
  • Sonora Mud Turtle
  • Yellow Mud Turtle 

Softshell Turtles (Trionychidae)

  • Gulf Coast Spiny Softshell 
  • Texas Spiny Softshell 

Tortoises (Testudinidae)

  • Desert Tortoise

FAQ

Are there any endangered turtles in Nevada?

The Desert Tortoise is declining in Nevada, with almost 90% of the population disappearing in some parts of the state.

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