Range
Endemic to most of central Texas.
Habitats
Lives in and around slow-moving freshwater streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds. Often seen basking on rocks and logs.
Identification
A somewhat large turtle with green skin covered in thin yellow stripes. Its dorsal carapace is a rather dull greenish brown, while the plastron and ventral carapace are dark yellow to orange. There are concentric dark ring patterns on the ventral surface and sides of the carapace. It can grow to over 12 inches in length, with females being larger than males.
Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians