***NY- Protected***

Identification- 8-11"  A large terrestrial turtle with a heavily sculptured carapace and bright orange and black legs.  The plastron is yellow with black squares on each scute.  Young are dull brown, becoming more colorful as they mature.  Males have a concave plastron and a larger tail than females.
    Similar Species- Often confused with Box Turtles, but Box turtles have a more colorful, smooth carapace and a hinge on the plastron.  Blanding's turtles also have a plastral hinge.  Neither shows the orange head and legs, although male Box Turtles may be largely yellow.

Range- Found locally throughout the state, but apparently absent from much of the Adirondack region.

Habitat- Terrestrial, but frequents areas near running water.  Most common near medium sized streams bordering deciduous woodlands and grassy meadows.

Reproduction-  Breeding takes place in the water in early spring and fall.  6-11 eggs layed mid to late June.  Hatch 2.5-3 months later.  Hatchlings may spend winter in the ground.

General Characteristics-
    Wood Turtles are one of the most sought after of this state's wildlife.  They have a reputation for being good pets, although one I kept while I lived in Pennsylvania was very active and a difficult captive although it ate ravenously.  They are omnivorous, feeding on earthworms, carrion, insects, and a wide variety of plant life.  Wood Turtles have a peculiar technique, seldom witnessed, for finding earthworms.  They stand and rock back and forth stamping their feet on the ground.  The vibrations force the worms out of their burrows and the turtles feast.  Wood Turtles are diurnal and are often seen crossing roadways.  They are a game species with no open season.  Collecting and possessing them in NY is illegal without the proper permits.