Blanding's Turtle, Emydoidea blandingii, Habitat Use During Hibernation in Eastern Ontario

Abstract

Seven Blanding's Turtles (Emydoidea blandingii) were followed using radiotelemetry to determine their habitat use during hibernation near Ottawa, Ontario. During May to August, five of the seven turtles occupied wetlands in which they would eventually hibernate. The turtles hibernated in five different wetlands: three in Organic Shallow Marsh Ecosites and two in Organic Thicket Swamp Ecosites. One Blanding's Turtle over-wintered in a temporary marsh that did not form until October. Blanding's Turtles do not appear to be limited in their choice of suitable hibernation sites even near the northern range limit of the species.