Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica)
	Map Turtles are a rather large species, attaining a carapace length of about 10 inches.  Like other members of the Emydidae family, this species spends a lot of time basking and will take to the water at the first sign of danger.  It prefers larger bodies of water such as some of inlets along the Detroit River and Lake Erie as well as the extensive marshes at Point Pelee.  They are named for the yellowish "road map" markings all over the body.  This pattern is more pronounced on young turtles (as in photos below).  Map Turtles are common in the right habitat but are usually difficult to approach and are therefore not seen at close range by most.
		Photo taken in Amherstburg.
		Photo of a juvenile found in Turkey Creek, Essex County.
		Photo of a juvenile found in Turkey Creek, Essex County.
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