STRIPED MUD TURTLE
(Kinosternon bauri palmarum)

IDENTIFICATION:  This is a small turtle whose shell rarely gets more than 4 inches long.  It is very easy to identify by the 3 light colored stripes that run lengthwise along the top of their shells.  A more unique feature of this turtle is that they have a hinged shell.  They are able to close their shell up tight to hide from predators (similar to a box turtle).

RANGE AND HABITAT:  This species of mud turtle is found in all of peninsular Florida, as well as the southern edge of Georgia.  They can be found in a wide variety of aquatic habitats, and occasionally walk around on the land.  As one can guess from their name, they like to hide in the mud at the bottom of the water.

REPRODUCTION:  Typically, the three-striped turtle nests from March to October, but will nest year-round in warmer climates.  They prefer to build their nest near the shoreline in sand piles or decaying vegetation.  The young will hatch in 3-4 months and will be about the size of a quarter.

DIET:  Mud turtles eat a wide variety of food including aquatic plants, small aquatic animals, and carrion.  It has been given the nickname of “Cowdung Cooter” as it occasionally eats manure.

FUTURE:  Although common in most areas, they are endangered in the lower Florida Keys due to land development.