Western Painted Turtle
Chrysemys picta bellii
DISTRIBUTION: In our region, Chrysemys p. bellii occurs naturally in isolated populations in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas and Utah. In California it is believed that this species has been introduced as it is only occasionally seen in heavily human populated areas of coastal southern California and the San Francisco Bay area which would indicate that the specimens sighted are released pets. It is uncertain if Chrysemys p. bellii has established actual breeding populations in California.
LEGAL STATUS: No Listings