Family Emydidae – Pond and Box Turtles

This is the largest family of turtles and includes most turtle species in the United States. In Colorado it includes two native turtles and one introduced species. Most of this family have flattened, low-profile shells and live in or near water, but box turtles have high, domed shells and live on land. The head and neck are smooth, and the shell is covered with scutes. The hind feet are flat and partly webbed.

Aquatic species often climb out of the water onto a log or bank and bask in the sun. Some species have elaborate courtship behaviors in which the male strokes the female’s head with his claws.