Diamondback Terrapin behavior
The Diamondback Terrapin, also known as the "Chesapeake Terrapin", is an attractive and unique animal. It is the only North American turtle that can tolerate salt in its water. They are very popular among both novice and advanced herpetoculturists.
While most turtles are freshwater species, the Diamondback Terrapin prefers the brackish water of salt marshes. Some of these marshes are fed by freshwater springs, while others are tidal, making the range of saltiness in which Diamondback Terrapins live quite large. Because Diamondback Terrapins will not live in polluted waters, they are a good indicator of healthy streams and marshes. The Diamondback Terrapin hibernates under the mud for several months in the winter, emerging in late May to mate, nest, and enjoy the sun.