Status

The redbelly turtle (Pseudemys rubriventris) is one of Pennsylvania's largest turtles. The carapace, or shell is brown to black with reddish bars on some scutes. The plastron, or belly is pink to red and the head, neck and legs are covered with bright yellow lines in younger individuals. Markings may become less obvious with age and some older turtles are almost completely black above with few distinguishing characteristics. Confusing species are painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) and the introduced red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta). Painted turtles can be distinguished by the light borders along the carapace seams and smaller size in adults. Red-eared sliders are similar in size and coloration, however the presence of a red "ear patch " can sometimes be used to identify this species. Like the redbelly turtle, painted turtles and sliders may darken with age making it difficult to differentiate between the species. Habitat This aquatic species is primarily found in large water bodies including lakes, ponds, marshes, slow-moving rivers and creeks. Redbelly turtles prefer deeper water with sandy or muddy substrate and require aquatic vegetation. This species also depends on abundant basking sites and spend a great deal of time perched on logs and downed trees. Nesting sites are in upland habitat and usually within 100 meters of the water, though they have been known to nest up to 250m from water. Eggs are laid in sandy or loamy soil, in clutches of 10 to 12