Yellow-blotched map turtle facts for kids
The yellow-blotched map turtle (Graptemys flavimaculata), also called the yellow-blotched sawback, is a type of turtle from the Emydidae family. It belongs to a group of turtles known as map turtles that have narrow heads. This turtle is special because it is only found in the southern United States.
Quick facts for kids Yellow-blotched map turtle |
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Graptemys
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flavimaculata
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Contents
Why This Turtle Needs Help
This turtle is a protected species in the US because its numbers are going down. They don't have as many babies as other map turtles. Many of their nests are destroyed by birds like fish crows or by floods.
They sometimes nest in shady spots. This might be because people disturb their usual sandy nesting areas. This can make it harder for their babies to survive. Their homes are also harmed by pollution. Changes in water levels from farming also affect their nesting beaches. Sadly, some people harm these turtles, which reduces their population.
Where They Live
You can only find the yellow-blotched map turtle in the Pascagoula River in Mississippi. They also live in most of the smaller rivers that flow into it. Another type of turtle, the Pascagoula map turtle, lives in the same area.
How Far They Travel
Male turtles usually stay within an area of about 1.12 hectares (2.77 acres). They travel about 1.8 km (1.1 mi) within this area. Female turtles need a larger area, about 5.75 hectares (14.20 acres). This is because they need space for nesting. They travel about 1.5 km (0.9 mi) within their larger home range.
What They Look Like
Yellow-blotched map turtles are small to medium-sized. Adult males are about 9 to 11.5 cm (3.5 to 4.5 in) long. This measurement is for their carapace, which is their top shell. Adult females are bigger, about 13 to 19 cm (5 to 7.5 in) long. The yellow-blotched map turtle has the tallest central ridge on its shell compared to all other map turtles.
What They Eat
Yellow-blotched map turtles mostly eat insects. However, they are opportunistic feeders. This means they will eat other things if they find them. They also eat crustaceans, fish, and some fresh plants.
See also
In Spanish: Tortuga mapa amarilla para niños
