*The colored areas of the map above represent parishes with currently known records for the given species (Source: Jeff Boundy, LA Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries). By no means does it represent the full range of the species in the state, nor does it necessarily mean that a species can be found throughout the parish with the record. This is provided as a guide to where you might be able to find these species in the state and to aid in identification. A descriptive explanation of the range of each species can be found in the text below.
Other Common Names:
Subspecies: Only the Mississippi Diamond-backed Terrapin, Malaclemys terrapin pileata, occurs within Louisiana coastal waters.
Description:
Similar Species:
Species Range:
Louisiana Range: Coastal Parishes.
Habitat:
Natural History:
Best Time and Place to Observe:
Global Conservation Status: Diamond-backed Terrapins are listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List. Their NatureServe Global Conservation Status Rank is G4 (Apparently Secure).
Federal Conservation Status: None
Louisiana Conservation Status: Diamond-backed Terrapins have a ranking of S3 (rare and local throughout the state – 21-100 known extant populations) in Louisiana. They are also a ‘restricted harvest’ species in Louisiana, where, with a proper license, Diamond-backed Terrapins may be taken during all months except between April 15 - June 15. They must measure 6 inches or more carapace length to be legally harvested, and may not be taken by a trap of any kind.
*** If you live in the range of this species in Louisiana and believe you may have observed this species please let me know (take a picture if possible), as there may be more unknown populations in the state.***
Author's Remarks: I have observed this species on occasion in St Bernard Parish, and also within Rockefeller State Refuge in Cameron Parish, and other private land in Cameron Parish.
