Northern Map Turtle
Graptemys geographica — Emydidae
3.25–10.8 inches Extreme sexual dimorphism: males 3.25–6.25 in., females 7–10.8 in.
How to identify
- Network of light lines on carapace resembling a topographic map
- Low keel running along the vertebral scutes
- Yellow markings on dark skin
- Very wary — will flee basking sites quickly
- Extreme size difference between males and females
About this species
Named for the map-like lines on their shell, northern map turtles are shy, highly aquatic turtles of Virginia's larger rivers. They are wary baskers that will immediately slide into the water at the slightest disturbance. Females are dramatically larger than males — one of the most extreme cases of sexual dimorphism among Virginia turtles.
Often confused with
Did you know
"Female northern map turtles have much larger heads and jaws than males, allowing them to crush the mollusks and clams that make up the bulk of their diet — males eat mainly insects."
Sightings & citizen science
Help document Virginia wildlife by logging your sightings on iNaturalist. Every observation builds the conservation data that researchers and rehabbers depend on.
View Northern Map Turtle observations on iNaturalist ↗If you've found an injured or displaced Northern Map Turtle in Virginia, our triage guide walks you through what to do.