Bog turtles are North America's smallest turtle, but it is federally endangered. It has very specific habitat requirements, and the most suitable habitats are threatened by agriculture and development. Phase 2 surveys are required to rezone and develop area in the turtle's range, and I have assisted both Scott Smith from MD-DNR and private companies in these surveys.
These turtles are elusive and require patience and experience to find. MD-DNR surveys known breeding sites to assess the health and productivity of known populations. Found turtles are measured, marked, and checked for gravidity.
