Georgia wildlife
Diamondback terrapin
Malaclemys terrapin
Diamondback terrapins inhabit brackish tidal marshes along the Georgia coast.
See the Diamondback terrapin up close
Best months
May · Jun · Jul · Aug · Sep
Best at low tide when they bask on mudflats; check the official Georgia DNR report for precise timing.
Where to look
Georgia coast salt marshesSkidaway Island State ParkHarris Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Conservation status
Coastal species, some populations declining locally
Good to know
What do diamondback terrapins eat?
They feed primarily on snails, crabs, and small mollusks found in salt marshes.
Are diamondback terrapins protected in Georgia?
Yes, they are listed as a species of concern and are protected from unregulated collection.
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