Identification
The Hieroglyphic
River Cooter can be difficult to identify in the field. The carapace is dark
brown to black, and is adorned with an intricate pattern of yellowish lines.
The head, tail and limbs are dark or blackish and striped with yellow. In contrast
to similar species there are no markings behind the eye, but there are five
light stripes between the eyes.
Distribution and Status
The Hieroglyphic River Cooter ranges from southern Indiana and Illinois to northeastern
Mississippi, east to southeastern Tennessee and through western Kentucky, and
through northwestern Georgia. In the Midwest, the cooter is State Endangered
in Indiana and Illinois. The species is absent from Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota,
and Iowa.
Ecology
These turtles prefer rivers with a moderate current and plentiful vegetation.
While they are highly aquatic, spending the majority of their time in the water,
they may be spotted basking in large groups. Hieroglyphic River Cooters are
rarely found in small bodies of water such as ponds or streams.
Threats and Management Issues
Humans pose the greatest threat to this species, and adult turtles are harvested
for human consumption. Road fatalities and well as habitat loss and destruction,
through pollution and drainage also contribute to population declines. Juvenile
Hieroglyphic River Cooters were also formerly collected and used in the pet
trade.
Resources
Ernst. C. H., J. E. Lovich and R. W. Barbour. 1994. Turtles of the United States and Canada. Smithsonian Institution Press, USA.
General reference guides and websites.
Links to more information on the Hieroglyphic River Cooter outside the Herp Center
Illinois Natural History Survey
Bruce Kingsbury, Director
Center for Reptile and Amphibian Conservation and Management
Science Building
Indiana-Purdue University
2101 East Coliseum Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1499