Turtles of the Southeast

by Kurt Buhlmann, Tracey Tuberville, Whit Gibbons

Seventy-five percent of the turtle species in the United States can be found in the Southeast. In fact, the region is second only to parts of Asia in its number of native turtles. Filled with more than two hundred color photographs and written with a special focus on conservation, this guide covers forty-five species of this nonthreatening, ancient lineage of long-lived reptiles.Heavily illustrated, fact-filled descriptions of each species and its habitat comprise the heart of the book. Species accounts cover such information as descriptions of adults and hatchlings; key identifiers including size, distinctive characters and markings; land, river, pond, and wetland habitats; behaviors and activities; food and diet; reproduction; predators and defense; and conservation issues.

Also included is a wealth of general information about the importance of turtle conservation and the biology, diversity, and life history of turtles. Discussed are distinguishing turtle characteristics; differences among turtles, tortoises, and terrapins; shell structure and architecture; reproduction and longevity; turtle predators and defense mechanisms; and turtle activities such as basking, hibernation, aestivation, and seasonal movement. Useful information about the interactions of humans and turtles is also covered: species that are likely to be commonly encountered, turtles as pets, and more.

Clearly written, cleanly designed, and fun to use, the guide will promote a better understanding of the habitat needs of, and environmental challenges to, this fascinating group of animals.

Features:


In-depth descriptions of the forty-two native species
Conservation-oriented approach
More than two hundred color photographs
Nearly forty distribution maps
Clear descriptions of each species, including differences in the appearance of young and mature turtles
“Did You Know?” sidebars of interesting turtle facts
Size charts; key identifiers; and information about habitat, behavior and activity, food and feeding, reproduction, predators and defense, and conservation

Genres: Nature, Nonfiction, Biology, Science

264 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2008

Reviews

[Trent Marv · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, this book is a great coverage of the turtles of the Southeastern United states, and frankly given that the majority of turtles are from this region it also functions as a good resource for people generally interested in this group. Indeed, for as much as people treat the south as a backwater it does contain some astounding secrets like the greatest diversity of turtles outside of some areas in Southeast Asia. This book has tons of amazing info on turtles including their range, ecology, and current conservation issues as well as on their study and interaction with humans, which are mostly negative.
Despite this there are a few problems that prevent me from giving it 5 stars. For one it is now sadly out of date as The Alligator snapping turtle has recently had a second species recognized, Suwannee Alligator Snapping Turtle (Macrochelys suwanniensis) which is endemic to the Suwannee river basin and separated from the other more common species in the Late Miocene/early Pliocene around 5 to 13 million years ago. And two I think the decision to break up the turtles into chapters based on environment but not taxonomy was a mistake and just doesn't flow as well as it would have. Also unlike other groups there are no known invasive turtles of note so their exclusion I've seen others complain about doesn't really bother me. Still despite this I must recommend the book as it is an invaluable resource on our heroes in a half shell.

[Rob Smith, Jr. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lengthy and detailed look at turtles and toroises in the southeastern United States.
There is a very well written over view of the turtles and then profiles of each. Including details and maps. Plenty of photos to support the narrative.

I like the layout of over view and then an overview of species and then breakdowns of sub-species. Starting off with what makes each distinctive is terrific. Then eating habits, living areas and more.

Bottom line: I recommend this book. 10 out of ten points.

[Emily Bragg · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solid overview, semi-repetitive organization

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This area is home to me!! My coworkers rehabilitate rescued sea turtles. This book has so much information and helped me learn more about these fascinating animals who endure so much. They’re stamina and strength to heal from horrible injuries is unbelievable.