Painted Turtle

Illinois State Reptile


Painted turtle


Painted Turtle

The painted turtle (Chrysemys picta) was designated the official state reptile in 2005 after winning the vote of the citizens of Illinois in 2004. Voting for favorite state reptile was conducted on the Internet (other candidates that were considered: the eastern box turtle and the common garter snake). The painted turtle is also the reptile symbol for Michigan.

The painted turtle is one of the most widespread and abundant turtle species in the USA and Canada, and although it faces some threats, it is considered to be of least concern in terms of current extinction risk.




Painted turtles


The Painted Turtle