Size:  Between 9 and 13 inches (23-33 cm).
Description:  A large turtle with very similar physical characteristics as the River Cooter. These include, a dark carapace, light colored plastron, striped head and neck, and a concentrically patterned shell. Distinguishing this turtle from the closely related River Cooter (Pseudemys floridana) and Redbelly Turtle (Pseudemys rubiventris) and from the Yellowbelly Slider (Trachemys scripta) can be difficult. On younger Florida Cooters markings on shell are usually visible. Markings are usually vertical and lack the "C" on the second side scute characteristic of the River Cooter. However, on older individuals, shell pattern is not always visible. This turtle is best distinguished from the Slider by its much more flattened and flared shell and by its rounded chin (flattened in sliders). Redbelly Turtle has reddish or orange underside and reddish vertical bars on carapace. In addition River Cooters are found in rivers and streams while Florida Cooters usually inhabit wetlands, marshes, ponds, and other still waters. Redbelly turtles are restricted to coastal areas.
Habitat:  Any permanent fresh body of water particularly wetlands, marshes, and other "still" waters.
Range:  The southeastern U.S.  In North Carolina they are found only in the Coastal Plain.
Behavior:  Most cooters have a tendency to sunbathe on logs and other suitable platforms.
Diet:  Mostly aquatic vegetation.

Range of the Florida Cooter in the Carolinas and Virginia