Turtles and tortoises are native residents of Arizona, representing a diversity of shelled reptiles within the arid landscape. The state is home to both entirely terrestrial species, known as tortoises, and several types of true turtles that rely on permanent or semi-permanent water sources. This distinction between land-dwelling and water-dwelling reptiles is pronounced in Arizona, where these animals have developed specific adaptations to survive the extreme temperatures and scarcity of water.
The Desert Tortoise: Arizona’s Terrestrial Resident
The most recognized shelled reptile is the Sonoran Desert Tortoise, scientifically classified as Gopherus morafkai. Tortoises are exclusively land-dwelling, possessing a high-domed, heavy shell and sturdy, elephantine legs built for walking. The Sonoran Desert Tortoise has developed strategies for surviving the region’s intense heat and drought conditions.
These reptiles spend up to 95% of their lives underground in burrows they excavate. This underground shelter provides a stable microclimate, keeping them cool during high summer temperatures and protecting them during winter hibernation. To conserve moisture, the tortoise can store water in its bladder, which is necessary for surviving long periods between rainfall.
The Sonoran Desert Tortoise is a protected species under Arizona state law. State statutes prohibit the harassment, hunting, capture, or collection of this reptile from the wild. Moving a wild tortoise is illegal and detrimental to the animal, as they have a small home range and will not know where to find food or shelter if relocated. If one is encountered, observe it from a distance and leave it undisturbed.
Arizona’s Native Aquatic Turtles
In contrast to their terrestrial counterpart, Arizona’s native aquatic turtles require access to water for survival and are found in the state’s rivers, streams, and permanent ponds. The Sonoran Mud Turtle (Kinosternon sonoriense) is one such species, thriving in habitats like the Gila and Salt River drainages and various rocky streams and cattle tanks. This turtle is smaller than the tortoise and has a lower, more streamlined shell, as well as webbed feet adapted for swimming and navigating muddy substrates.
The Sonoran Mud Turtle is predominantly carnivorous, with a diet that includes aquatic insects, snails, fish, and carrion found within its watery foraging grounds. Another native species is the Western Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta bellii), found primarily in the Lyman Lake area and in reservoirs and canals near population centers like Phoenix and Tucson. This turtle is easily identified by the bright red and yellow markings on its olive-green shell and body.
Unlike the tortoise, these true turtles are semi-aquatic, spending significant time basking on logs or rocks to regulate their body temperature. Their specialized fixed tongue requires them to consume their food underwater. They occasionally travel across land when moving between water sources or when females are seeking nesting sites.
Non-Native Species and Public Interaction
The introduction of non-native species poses a threat to Arizona’s indigenous turtle and tortoise populations. The most common non-native turtle is the Red-Eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans), which is widely sold in the pet trade and often released into the wild by owners. These released pets can establish themselves in Arizona’s aquatic habitats, including city park ponds and canals.
Red-Eared Sliders are highly adaptable and compete directly with native turtles for food resources and basking spots. They also pose a risk of transmitting diseases to wild native species that have no natural immunity. Releasing any captive turtle or tortoise into the wild is strictly prohibited due to the risk of disease and competition.
The public must adhere to guidelines when encountering any shelled reptile in Arizona. Never remove a wild desert tortoise; instead, contact the Arizona Game and Fish Department if one is found in a dangerous location, such as a busy road. If an individual owns a captive tortoise or other non-native pet turtle, it must never be released, as doing so is illegal and jeopardizes the health of Arizona’s native reptiles.