There are three species of turtles to expect around Las Vegas. There is one native land turtle (Desert Tortoise), one native water turtle (Spiny Softshell), and one non-native aquatic turtle (Red-eared Slider). Desert tortoises are listed as a federally Threatened Species, so they are protected under the Endangered Species Act. If you find one in the desert, make sure it doesn't get hurt (e.g., crossing a highway), but otherwise leave them alone. Look for the other turtles in ponds around the area. Red-ears are widely kept as pets, but if you have a pet turtle, please do not release it into native ponds or streams outside of town. If you must release one, let it go in a neighborhood pond in town where it will not affect wild ecosystems.

 
Note: All distances, elevations, and other facts are approximate.
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© Jim Boone; Last updated 081226