NOTE: State and federal laws protect sea turtles and diamond back terrapins. They cannot be legally consumed.
Turtles can bioaccumulate contaminants at levels that could be a potential human health concern. Turtles accumulate contaminants in their fat, organs, and skin. So, if you choose to eat turtles from Texas waters, we recommend removing and discarding all skin, fat, eggs, and organs. This will reduce your risk of contaminant exposure. Save only the muscle meat from the legs and tail for eating.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Links and Resources
Federal and state-listed amphibian and reptile species
Nongame, exotic, endangered, threatened, and protected species
Seafood and Aquatic Life Group
- Contact Information - Seafood and Aquatic Life
- Certification Information - Seafood and Aquatic Life
- Applications and Forms - Seafood and Aquatic Life
- Laws and Rules-Seafood and Aquatic Life
- Open Records - Seafood and Aquatic Life
- General Turtle Consumption Guidance for Texas Waters-Seafood and Aquatic Life
- General Information on the Risk of Eating Fish-Seafood and Aquatic Life
- Links and Resources - Seafood and Aquatic Life
- Compliance & Enforcement - Seafood and Aquatic Life Safety
