False Map Turtle

False Map Turtle

Scientific Name: Graptemys pseudogeographica
Family: Emydidae

Description and Size 

  • Somewhat flattened upper shell (carapace)
  • Ridge of small spines down the middle of the carapace
  • Shell length: 9.0-27.8 cm (3.5-10.9 in)
  • Carapace color: olive green to brown
  • Plastron color: yellow or cream colored
  • Head and neck have many yellow stripes

Habitat

  • Large rivers
  • Backwater ponds

Diet

  • Omnivorous
  • Invertebrates
  • Alive and dead fish

Life History

  • Diurnal
  • Active season: Early April – late October
  • Breeding season: Early in season, also in fall
  • Lays eggs
  • Multiple clutches with 10-12 eggs per female (Vogt and Bull, 1984)

Range

False Map Turtle

Most common range within the last 50 years and does not include outliers. For more info email dferraro1@unl.edu.