posted on: July 9, 2019
Type: Tidal
Region: Central
Location: Susquehanna Flats
My buddy, Mike Yants, got a snakehead on the west side of the flats. We also have been doing well catching crabs on the upper bay. We also had this turtle on our trotline. We aren't sure what kind it is.
DNR Response: Thank you for your pictures! The turtle is a Northern Diamondback Terrapin which is a common bycatch of crabbing. They are not only the Maryland state reptile but are also endangered.
More information on this species can be found here: dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/Pages/plants_wildlife/herps/Testudines.aspx?TurtlesName=Northern%20Diamond-backed%20Terrapin