Diamondback Terrapins are medium-sized subaquatic turtles found in brackish water throughout Florida. There are five subspecies, three of which are endemic to (only found in) Florida. Diamondback Terrapins are listed as a vulnerable species, meaning they risk becoming threatened or extinct due to habitat loss, road mortality, predation, and crab traps. Terrapins can live up to 40 years in captivity and 25 years in the wild.
While the Terrapin could not survive its injuries, staff successfully harvested the eggs to incubate them at our clinic. The incubation period for these turtle eggs is 60-85 days. Turtles and tortoises are not maternal animals and do not care for their young after hatching. Once the eggs hatch, staff will monitor the hatchlings to ensure their egg yolk is absorbed correctly, and then they will be cleared for release. CROW will coordinate with the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) to locate an ideal habitat to release the hatchlings. Diamondback Terrapins’ ideal habitats are brackish coastal tidal marshes, mangrove swamps, estuaries, lagoons, and tidal creeks.
As part of our efforts to protect Diamondback Terrapins, we encourage you to be vigilant and proactive. If you spot a turtle crossing a road, and it’s safe to do so, kindly move it to the other side in the direction it is heading. If you come across a turtle laying eggs, please give it space and allow it to finish. Avoid disturbing the nest or attempting to move it, as this could jeopardize the chances of successful hatching. Your small actions can make a big difference in the conservation of these unique creatures.