Are diamondback terrapins native to the Chesapeake Bay? And also, are they exotic species?
Yes, diamondback terrapins are native to the Chesapeake Bay. They are not an exotic species – in fact, in recent years measures have been taken to further protect this beautiful local reptile, including a recent ban on catching diamondback terrapins. Terrapins still face challenges from habitat loss – the open sandy beaches in which terrapins lay their eggs are increasingly being replaced with bulkheads, stone, and other hard surfaces that the turtles can’t access. Some examples of non-native exotic animals that have been introduced to the Bay watershed include the nutria and the snakehead fish. If you have a question about the Bay or if your question is not listed in our archive, please submit your question to our panel of Chesapeake Bay experts.
