Alabama works to save the Diamondback Terrapin

After a devastating summer for wildlife in Gulf Coast States, Alabama received a 1$ million grant to purchase coastal wetlands and create a preserve for the Diamondback Terrapin.

Smith said both tracts are waterfront property that have unique wetlands habitats. "Both tracts need to be conserved, but one in particular, the one that we call the Heron Bay tract, happens to be the only stronghold of the last remnant habitat for the diamondback terrapin, which is a big deal," Smith said. "There's a lot of interest in that habitat and some universities have been studying that area for years, and that's basically the last remaining habitat in the state of Alabama for the diamondback terrapin, so we're really excited that we’re getting this award to purchase that property." Smith said the state Forever Wild program will provide $379,500 in matching funds to buy the property. The diamondback terrapin is the only turtle in North America that spends its life in brackish water. About 40 to 60 of the turtles are believed to live in south Mobile County, according to a 2008 Press-Register story. The reptile is listed as a species of 'highest conservation concern' by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

The purchase will also include areas called maritime forests, which are coastal woodlands. For the full article, click here.