Map Turtle history
The twelve species of Map Turtle can be found throughout North America from Canada to the Southern United States. The range of the various species of Map Turtles extends from Florida, west to Texas and north, as far as Quebec. Map Turtles are resistant to collection by humans because of their timidity, but they are still at risk. Birds, raccoons, and other mammals often consume their eggs. Once the eggs hatch, alligators, birds, fish, and other turtles often eat them. The greater threat to the Map Turtles human beings. Because Map Turtles can only live in pristinely clean water, pollution and habitat destruction are causing a decrease in this animal's numbers. In Florida, laws have been passed that prohibit the over-collection of these animals. In Mississippi, it is illegal to collect the turtles or to harm them in any way.
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