Washington has freshwater habitats like Clearwater and Snake Rivers and saltwater habitats like the Pacific Ocean in the west. Turtles living in the state include the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle, the Western Painted Turtle, the River Cooter, the Green Sea Turtle, and the Ouachita Map Turtle.
Types of Turtles Found in Washington
Sea Turtles (Cheloniidae)
- Loggerhead Sea Turtle
- Green Sea Turtle
- Olive Ridley Sea Turtle
Snapping Turtles (Chelydridae)
Leatherback Sea Turtles (Dermochelyidae)
Emydid Turtles (Emydidae)
Painted Turtles
Map Turtles
- Ouachita Map Turtle
- False Map Turtle
Cooters
Pond Turtles
Sliders
Softshell Turtles (Trionychidae)
FAQ
Are there any endangered turtles in Washington? While the Western Pond Turtle is classified as “Vulnerable” by the IUCN, it is endangered within Washington.
Where to see sea turtles in Washington? They can be spotted off the lagoons and bays on the Washington coast.