06/15/2026
It's the spotted turtle! This small turtle is easy to recognize by the bright yellow spots scattered across its dark shell. Spotted turtles are a state-threatened species in Michigan and are often found in shallow wetlands, marshes and seasonal pools.
Spotted turtles are a great example of a species that uses vernal pools during part of its life cycle. In spring, these temporary wetlands provide important habitat, food and shelter. As the season progresses and vernal pools dry up, spotted turtles move to other nearby wetlands and aquatic habitats.
While some animals depend entirely on vernal pools to survive and reproduce, species like the spotted turtle are considered "vernal pool facultative" species. They benefit from vernal pools but also use other habitats throughout the year.
Vernal pools may be temporary, but their impact on wildlife lasts all year. These seasonal wetlands support a wide variety of Michigan species, from salamanders and frogs to turtles, birds and mammals.
Turtle tip: If you find turtle eggs or a nest in the wild, leave them undisturbed. Mother turtles do not stay with their nests after laying eggs, but they have carefully chosen the site. Moving eggs can harm the developing turtles and reduce their chances of survival.
Want to learn more about vernal pools and the wildlife that depends on them? Visit the Michigan Vernal Pools Partnership for information, resources and ways to get involved can be found in the comments.
Have you ever spotted a spotted turtle in the wild?
Now go and enjoy the weekend, because it's Three Free Weekend, giving you free fishing, free state park access and free ORV trail riding - no fishing/ORV license or permit and no Recreation Passport required June 13-14.
