Reptiles of the Orono Crown Lands
Article and photos by Jim Richards
Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina)
photo Jim Richards
Eastern Garter Snake
(Thamnophis sirtalis)
photo Jim Richards
| Of the 24 species of reptiles (snakes, turtles and lizards) found in Ontario, I am only aware of 3 species known to inhabit the OCL. I would certainly expect more: especially snakes. If readers have information about other species, I would be pleased to hear from them.
All 8 turtle species have a range in Ontario that would include our area, but I only know of two species ever recorded here; Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) and Midland Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta). The only species of lizard found in Ontario is the Five-lined Skink (Eumeces fasciatus), and their range is restricted to the northern and south-western portions of the province. Of the 15 species of snakes normally found in the wild in Ontario, I am only aware of one species ever recorded for the OCL; Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis). Undoubtedly there are more! Of these 15, there are 6 species restricted mainly to south-western Ontario. Of all the species in Ontario, only one is venomous, the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus), and it is not found here. It is found more frequently on the Bruce Peninsula. Article from The Steward, Fall 2010 | 
Midland Painted Turtle
(Chrysemys picta)
photo Jim Richards
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