Range
Pseudemys floridana is found in the southeastern coastal plain of the United States. Its range extends from Virginia, south to Florida and west to Mobile Bay, Alabama.
Habitats
This aquatic turtle prefers permanent shallow rivers and lakes with lots of aquatic vegetation. It will sometimes inhabit ponds, swamps, or springs. It rarely strays more than 30 meters from water sources.
Identification
Florida cooters (Pseudemys floridana) have a flat carapace that measures 23 to 33 cm (9 - 13 in.) in length and displays a dark background with a yellow or orange pattern. The plastron is unmarked and the marginal scutes have hollow oval markings. The head has yellowish orange stripes that do not form "hairpins", unlike some of their close relatives.
Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians