Northern Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys t. terrapin)
There are 7 species of Diamondback Terrapin and according to the US gov this is the species that resides at Bombay Hook where it often can be found in June burying eggs in the dikes. It lays oblong, pinkish eggs often eaten by raccoons or opossums. They eat snails, clams, worms. Female 6 - 10", Male 4 - 6' - basks on mud flats, found in brackish water/salt marshes - shell shows deep growth rings - shell color is variable - head and legs peppered with black.
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Northern Diamondback Terrapin
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Northern Diamondback Terrapin - We saw four female individuals today. The males are much smaller and show brighter colors.
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Northern Diamondback Terrapin - After moving one out of the road, we saw another ahead that appeared to be digging a hole in the middle of the road.
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Northern Diamondback Terrapin - This individual was about 8" long (just the carapace) and about 6-7" wide.
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Northern Diamondback Terrapin - Before we could get to the next one, someone else got out of their car and moved the turtle off to the side.
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Northern Diamondback Terrapin - The plastron doesn't have any notable markings and isn't hinged like a Box Turtle's.
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Northern Diamondback Terrapin - Now knowing it's the season for this female to lay her eggs, maybe it was worth a few insect bites to have been able to observe this today. :o)
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Northern Diamondback Terrapin - Photo-op over, Terry is moved to the salt-water side of the road. That was a lucky choice!
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