Western Pond Turtle

Emys marmorata (Clemmys marmorata)

This is the only native freshwater turtle on the Pacific Coast. In many places this species has been replaced by the larger, more aggressive Red-eared Slider. The slider is not native to the west, but so many pet sliders were released into the wild by pet owners that grew tired of their turtles that they now outnumber the Western Pond Turtle in many lakes and ponds. Never release a pet reptile or amphibian in the wild; it is usually bad for the pet and for your native species too.

Look For : A turtle with a yellow lower shell; black flecks on leg scales.

Length : 3 1/2-7 1/2".

Habitat : Streams, rivers, ditches.

Range : West Coast of U.S. and British Columbia.