The Eastern Painted Turtle is native to the eastern United States and parts of Canada, thriving in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. These turtles are easily recognized by their smooth, dark shells with bright red and yellow markings along the edges, giving them a "painted" appearance. Fun fact: Eastern Painted Turtles can live up to 50 years in the wild and are excellent sunbathers, often seen basking on logs to regulate their body temperature. Their diet is omnivorous, including aquatic plants, small fish, and insects, playing an important role in their aquatic ecosystem.