What Is Minnesota’s State Reptile? Most Minnesotans Get The Answer Wrong! Do You?
🐢 This is Minnesota’s proposed State Reptile. Discover how you can contribute to the conservation of this threatened species! 🌿 #MinnesotaNews #DNRNews #Animals
ST. PAUL, MN – Minnesota is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including several species of turtles and reptiles. However, one particular turtle stands out from the rest: the Blanding’s turtle. This distinctive creature has been proposed as Minnesota’s State Reptile, and for good reason.
It’s interesting to note – Minnesota doesn’t actually have an official state reptile, but that might be about to change! Thanks to this adorable little shell-ebrity. Hehe.
😮 What Sets the Blanding’s Turtle Apart?
The Blanding’s turtle possesses a unique feature that sets it apart from all other reptiles in Minnesota. It boasts a striking yellow stripe on its chin and throat, making it easily recognizable among its fellow turtles. This characteristic, combined with its threatened status, has earned it the nomination for Minnesota’s State Reptile.
🌿 Habitat and Distribution
While Blanding’s turtles can be found in over half of Minnesota’s 84 counties, they are more prevalent in the central and southeastern regions of the state. These turtles have been listed as a threatened species since 1984, highlighting the importance of their conservation and protection.
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🕰️ A Long-Lived Species
One fascinating aspect of Blanding’s turtles is their impressive longevity. Some individuals have been known to live for over 70 years, a testament to their resilience and adaptability. However, despite their long lifespan, these turtles face numerous challenges and threats.
🦊 Threats and Challenges
Like many other turtle species in Minnesota, Blanding’s turtles are frequently targeted by predators such as raccoons, skunks, ravens, large fish, crows, and even ants.
These predators can devastate turtle nests, with up to 75 percent of Blanding’s turtle eggs falling victim to predation. Additionally, nests that escape predation often fail due to flooding, poor conditions, and other environmental factors.
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🤝 How You Can Help
If you encounter a Blanding’s turtle in the wild, it is crucial to leave it undisturbed. However, if you spot one crossing a road, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says you can help ensure its safety by either driving around it or, if it is safe to do so, pulling over and assisting it in crossing the road.
🐢 Conclusion
As we await the official designation of the Blanding’s turtle as Minnesota’s State Reptile, it is important to recognize the significance of this species and the role we can play in its protection.
By raising awareness and taking action to conserve their habitat, we can help ensure that these remarkable creatures continue to thrive in the Land of 10,000 Lakes for generations to come.
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🗣 Have you ever seen a Blanding’s turtle in the wild? What’s your fave Minnesota creature? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️
