Stats

Lifespan: 20-40 yrs
Size: Small
Diet: Omnivore
Activity: Diurnal
Social: Solitary
Biome: Freshwater wetland
Range: North America
Movement: Swimming
Breeding: Egg-laying
Defense: Armor
Status: Common

About

The painted turtle is North America's most widespread native turtle, recognized by its smooth olive-green shell adorned with red and yellow markings along the edges and a bright yellow-striped neck. It basks extensively on logs and rocks, often stacking in groups to absorb as much sunlight as possible.

Life cycle

1.
hatchling
A coin-sized hatchling digs out of the nest and makes its own way to water or shelter.
2.
juvenile
A juvenile turtle's shell hardens and grows yearly rings as it forages on its own.
3.
adult
Fully grown with adult shell size and markings.

Learn more

Taxonomy

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Emydidae
Genus: Chrysemys
Species: Chrysemys picta