Say hello to our pair of spotted turtle hatchlings

We’ve got two new, tiny faces to introduce!

Our Amphibian & Reptile team recently welcomed a pair of endangered spotted turtle hatchlings, which are now being cared for by our staff behind the scenes.

While these turtles, who are about the size of a quarter right now, are certainly cute to look at, they also mark another incredible achievement in the Buffalo Zoo’s conservation mission!

Spotted turtles are native to 21 states in the U.S., including right here in New York, with their range stretching down the east coast to Florida and across the Great Lakes region into Canada. They are considered a Species of Greatest Conservation Need, meaning they have been identified by wildlife agencies as having vulnerable populations, in all 21 states they reside in.

Their population has decreased largely due to loss of habitat and declining water quality. The collection of spotted turtles for the illegal pet trade is also playing a major factor in their worsening numbers.

 

It’s integral to help protect these precious North American turtles, and being able to welcome a pair into the world is a positive step forward.

Spotted turtles are aptly named for their trademark yellow polka dots that are scattered across their shell and body — and they’re even noticeable on our two hatchlings.

While they don’t grow to be incredibly large (about 4.5 inches in length), they have been known to live well over 75 years in human care. They are important parts of maintaining healthy freshwater ecosystems, as they are seed-spreaders and help keep insect populations in check.

Our two hatchlings will remain behind the scenes in the care of our keepers for the foreseeable future, as they continue to grow and acclimate to their surroundings. We will provide any update about the turtles becoming visible on exhibit, should it come. We will continue to push forward in our efforts to save this endangered species with our own spotted turtle colony, in accordance with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan.

Our Amphibian & Reptile Center is home to the parents of these tiny hatchlings, and you can see these active adult spotted turtles daily in their habitat!