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Habitat
The diamondback terrapin is the only turtle that can be found dwelling in brackish waters. Brackish waters are those waters that have a salt content, but not as high as the salt found in a marine environment. These exacting terrapins make their homes in marsh, estuaries, coastal swamps and lagoons. They prefer areas with tall grasses or reeds for cover. While they live in these harsh brackish environments, they also need access to freshwater for drinking.
The ideal habitat includes access to sand dunes or other nearby landforms that are consistently above water. The terrapins lay their eggs above the high-tide line.
Range
Seven different types of diamondback terrapin are found throughout the species' native range. They often have overlapping territories along the east coast of the United States, reaching from as far north as Maine to the Florida Keys. They also can be found all along the Gulf Coast as far as Texas. Their range continues for varying distances inland, as they tend to stay near the coast and the salty water to which it affords them access.
Adaptations
Diamondback terrapins have developed a way to deal with the high salt content in the waters where they spend much of their time. When too much salt is absorbed into the body, the turtles excrete the salt via glands near their eyes. This process allows them to maintain an internal balance of salt content.
The turtles also have adapted to the wide climate range in which they live. In areas with long, cold winters, terrapins will retreat into the muddy shores near lakes and ponds, or even into the mud of creeks beds, where they will hibernate through the winter months. Water temperature also plays a key role in the life of the diamondback terrapin. In areas where warm water exists, they remain in the water for longer periods of time. Where the water is colder, they often leave the safety of the water to bask in the warm sun.
Threats
Subspecies of the diamondback terrapin, such as the northern diamondback terrapin, have been added to the endangered species list. Similar problems exist throughout their habitats both north and south. Many terrapins are killed by boat propellers. Many more are killed by traffic while they search for suitable nesting sites. The nests that they build are vulnerable to predators from seabirds to raccoons and fox; not all the eggs laid will hatch terrapins that successfully make it back to the water. Many of these coastal areas that were once nesting grounds have been turned into residential or commercial properties, making nesting difficult. Climate change and the rising of the ocean level also plays a significant role in the difficulties faced by these terrapins. As the level of saltwater rises, the brackish waters disappear.