The Blanding's turtle (Emydoidea blandingii) is a state-listed threatened species. It depends upon riparian areas, a variety of wetland types, and is frequently associated with sandy upland soils for nesting. However, its specific habitats and conservation needs differ across Minnesota. An ongoing project locates areas where this rare species is found and provides critical habitat protections . There is an intensive effort in southwestern Minnesota to assess Blanding’s turtle presence and distribution and estimate its abundance. These data help determine conservation recommendations.
Habitat conservation efforts for Blanding's turtles fit well with other initiatives aimed at conservation and restoration of rivers corridors, wetlands and adjacent grasslands. Resident cooperation plays a key role in this project.
Please use our DNR Plant and Animal Observations form to report any Blanding's turtle sightings. You can learn more about Blanding's turtles in our Rare Species Guide.