Turtles Of Arkansas: Species And Habitats Explored

Arkansas is home to a variety of turtle species, with sources citing anywhere from 15 to 17 different types. The state's humid climate and dense forest land provide the perfect environment for these reptiles, which play an important ecological role in the state's aquatic ecosystems. From impressive alligator snapping turtles to colourful painted turtles, here's an introduction to the diverse world of Arkansas's turtles.

Common snapping turtles

The common snapping turtle, or *Chelydra serpentina*, is a species of turtle native to Arkansas and the Eastern United States. It is characterised by its strong beak-like jaw, flexible neck, and aggressive temperament. Common snapping turtles can be found in any fresh body of water with a muddy bottom and their diet includes aquatic animals, insects, vegetation, and fruits. Their colouring ranges from brown to black, and they have long necks, tails, and legs.

The common snapping turtle is an intermediate-level species for turtle enthusiasts. Their average adult size is 12-15 inches, rarely reaching up to 19 inches. They have an average lifespan of 30-50 years and a price range of $25-60. According to the IUCN, their conservation status is of least concern.

In Arkansas, common snapping turtles can be distinguished from their relative, the alligator snapping turtle, by their smaller size and less prominent ridges on their shells. The alligator snapping turtle, the largest freshwater turtle in the US, is a vulnerable species and is protected by law in the state.

Alligator snapping turtles

The alligator snapping turtle is a patient predator, waiting motionless underwater with its mouth open to capture unsuspecting fish. They are also highly unique in that they are the only known turtle in the world to possess an oral predatory lure, which they use to attract prey. This "lure" is a modified extension of the tongue that resembles a worm or larval insect. In addition to fish, alligator snapping turtles also feed on crayfish, mussels, leeches, aquatic salamanders, snakes, and even other turtles.

These turtles are highly sought-after and, as a result, have experienced drastic declines due to overharvesting. They are now protected from exploitation in most states, including Arkansas, and have been proposed for labelling as a threatened species.

Painted turtles

The Painted Turtle is a beginner-level species to care for. Their average adult size is 5-7 inches, and their lifespan is 20-30 years. They are considered a Least Concern conservation status.

The Western Painted Turtle is also found in Arkansas, listed as a potential occurrence.

Musk turtles

The Razor-backed musk turtle has a large, razor-backed carapace and a single-hinge plastron with squarish pectoral scutes. Its head is speckled with black dots. This species predominantly occupies riverine systems and associated reservoirs of the South Central Plains, ascending into the Ouachita Mountains and up the White and Cache rivers of the Mississippi Alluvial Plain.

The Eastern musk turtle has a weak keel carapace and a single-hinge plastron with squarish pectoral scutes. It is identified by the two light stripes on its head. This species occurs throughout most of the state, although it may be absent from the high-gradient streams of the Interior Highlands. It can be found in higher elevations along larger river systems, such as the Buffalo River in the Ozark Highlands and the Ouachita River in the Ouachita Mountains.

Softshell turtles

There are two types of softshell turtles in Arkansas: the Midland Smooth Softshell and the Spiny Softshell. The Midland Smooth Softshell is a relatively large species, with adults measuring between 8 and 16 inches in length. They have smooth, flat, soft shells that are grey or brown, with a lighter-coloured belly. They have a long, pointed snout and a streamlined body that allows them to move quickly through the water.

The Spiny Softshell gets its name from the spiny projections on the front of its shell, which become more pronounced as the turtle ages. They have a flat, streamlined shell and are covered in leathery skin. They are usually found in bodies of water such as lakes, ponds, rivers and marshes. They are carnivorous, eating snails, insects and small aquatic animals.

The conservation status of softshell turtles is important to consider, as the rise in popularity of keeping pet turtles has led to some species being over-caught.

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