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Saguaro National ParkStaff and guests with the Redhouse Dancers-Photo by John Williams
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Saguaro National Park
Turtles
ornate box turtle

image courtesy of eric stitt

Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornate)
This scientific name translates to mean small, ornate turtle.  Both the carapace (upper shell) and plastron (lower shell) are brown with radiating yellow lines, and the male has reddish spots on its front legs.  It lives in desert grasslands in shallow burrows to avoid extreme temperatures.  It has a hinged plastron, allowing it to seal off its head and front legs when a predator comes near.
Shell length: 4 - 5¾ in (10.1 - 14.6 cm)
Diet: Insects, fruits, berries, and leaves

 

 
Sonora mud turtle

image courtesy of dave prival

Sonora Mud Turtle (Kinosternon sonoriense) This aquatic turtle can be found in and around springs, creeks, or other water sources.  Its shell is yellowish-brown and often covered with algae.  It also has fleshy bumps located under the chin. 
Shell length: 3⅛ - 6½ in (7.9 - 16.5 cm) 
Diet: Crustaceans, insects, worms, fish, frogs

The forest of the Saguaro Wilderness Area.  

Did You Know?
Saguaro National Park is more than just a desert park. In fact, the highest point in the eastern district is Mica Mountain at 8,666. There you will find a dense forest of Ponderosa Pine, Douglas Fir, Alligator Juniper, and Aspen.

Last Updated: September 11, 2009 at 17:28 EST