The Barbour's map turtle is a very interesting species of turtle that is found in the Flint River area. They are called map turtles due to the map-like markings on their faces and legs. Female Barbour's map turtles grow from 7 to 12 inches in length; male Barbour's map turtles are smaller, growing from 3 ½ to 5 inches in length. The males and juveniles have black spine-shaped projections on the tops of their backs, giving them a saw back appearance. These spines wear down with age, giving older females a smoother look. The Barbour's map turtle is found in Georgia, Alabama, and Florida. They occur in the Flint, Chattahoochee, and Apalachicola River system. They prefer streams and rivers with logs, deadfall, and numerous mollusks for them to eat.
Exhibits: Flint River Gallery & Hatchery