*The colored areas of the map above represent parishes with currently known records for the given species (Source: Jeff Boundy, LA Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries). By no means does it represent the full range of the species in the state, nor does it necessarily mean that a species can be found throughout the parish with the record. This is provided as a guide to where you might be able to find these species in the state and to aid in identification. A descriptive explanation of the range of each species can be found in the text below.
Other Common Names:
Subspecies: No subspecies recognized.
Description:
Similar Species:
Species Range:
Louisiana Range: Statewide, but records are lacking from the southernmost parishes and a group of contiguous northern parishes.
Habitat:
Natural History:
Best Time and Place to Observe:
Global Conservation Status: Razor-backed Musk Turtles are listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. Their NatureServe Global Conservation Status Rank is G5 (Secure).
Federal Conservation Status: None
Louisiana Conservation Status: Razor-backed Musk Turtles have a ranking of S4 (apparently secure in Louisiana with many occurrences - 100 to 1000 known extant populations) in Louisiana. Razor-backed Musk Turtles are a restricted species in Louisiana, where, with a proper license, they may be taken, but take and possession is limited to two Razor-backed Musk Turtles, and no more than 10 restricted turtles (maximum of two per species, except Western Alligator Snapping Turtles which is one) are allowed in possession.
Author's Remarks: I have observed/trapped this species in several locations in Louisiana, including in central, southwest, south-central and southeast Louisiana.
