Western Pond Turtle

Western Pond Turtles are designated as a state “species of special concern” in California. Populations have declined by as much as 80% in some regions. The western pond turtle occurs in both permanent and intermittent waters. Since many intermittent ponds can dry up during summer and fall months along the West Coast the Western Pond turtle can spend upwards of 200 days out of water. Many turtles overwinter outside of the water, during which time they often create their nests for the year.