The Sonoran Mud Turtle inhabits streams and water holes in desert mountain ranges of the Southwest. It aestivates on land during droughts buried in soil. A tough species adapted to highly variable desert water sources.
Habitat
Desert streams, springs, and stock ponds in the Sonoran Desert
Diet
Aquatic invertebrates, carrion, and plant material
How common
Uncommon
Best time to see a Sonoran Mud Turtle
The best time to see a Sonoran Mud Turtle is April–August, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 986 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Recent Sonoran Mud Turtle sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Sonoran Mud Turtle?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.
5,300+species
63national parks
50states
More reptiles & amphibians
Sonoran Spiny-tailed Iguana
Ctenosaura macrolopha
Sonoran Spotted Whiptail
Aspidoscelis sonorae
Sonoran Whipsnake
Masticophis bilineatus
Southeastern Crowned Snake
Tantilla coronata
Southeastern Five-lined Skink
Plestiodon inexpectatus
Southeastern Slimy Salamander
Plethodon grobmani
Southern Alligator Lizard
Elgaria multicarinata
Southern Appalachian Salamander
Plethodon teyahalee