Terrapin Watch
About Terrapin Watch
Terrapin Watch is a community science project that engages Long Islanders in an effort to monitor and record the distribution of diamondback terrapins in our region. Participants are simply asked to report any diamondback terrapin sightings through our data collection system. Reports can be submitted through the data form below or on a mobile device through the free Survey 1-2-3 app.
Please contact Terrence Benefield at tbenefield@seatuck.org with any questions regarding the survey.
Accessing the Survey 1-2-3 Mobile Field App
- First, you must download the free Survey 123 mobile app on your mobile device
- Scan the QR code on the left using your phone’s camera. If you are currently on your mobile device, click here to download the Terrapin Watch survey and proceed with steps 4 & 5
- After scanning the QR code, click the top banner notification to open ArcGIS
- Choose “Open in the Survey 123 field app”, and “Open this page in Survey 123”
- Choose “Continue without signing in”
Help Us Find Terrapins from the Air
Seatuck is now using drones to survey diamondback terrapin habitat along Long Island's south shore. You can help us analyze the footage right from your computer. Watch short clips of marsh and mudflat habitat and mark any terrapins you spot. No experience needed, just a good eye and a few minutes to spare.
Get Started on ZooniverseTerrapin Watch Survey Map
Please Note: Clickable data points (shown in red) do not reflect confirmed sightings of wildlife. Each red dot indicates a survey submission.
Related Information
Keystone Trees
Long Island’s geological history allowed for a range of conditions and a diversity of habitats. Deciduous trees thrived in the rich soils of the North Shore’s glacial moraines. And the many streams and wetlands of the South Shore favored wetland species.
Other Streams
In addition to our work at Penataquit Creek, Bellmore Creek and West Brook, Seatuck has been involved in connectivity and restoration efforts across Long Island over the past decade as part of the River Revival Project. The following are some examples highlight the extent of this work.
Frogs and Salamanders
Seatuck’s Vernal Pool Project, launched in 2020, seeks to inventory, restore and protect ecologically valuable vernal pool habitat across Long Island. These unique places are essential to a wonderful assemblage of wildlife, including many of our region’s frogs and salamanders (and fairy shrimp!).