[8] Blanding's turtle is of interest in longevity research, as it shows few or no common signs of aging and is physically active and capable of reproduction into eight or nine decades of life.

[9][10] There are differences of opinion as to the genus for this species; both Emys and Emydoidea occur in published sources in 2009, 2010, and 2011.

The geographic range of E. blandingii centres on the Great Lakes, and extends from central Nebraska and Minnesota (where it twice failed to become the state reptile)[16] eastward through southern Ontario and the south shore of Lake Erie as far east as northern New York.

In Nebraska, this turtle is uncommon in the eastern portion of the state, but common to abundant in the Sand Hills region lakes, ponds, and streams.

Young will often travel far in search of mating sites, new habitat, or new food sources, as do elder turtles.

During fall and late spring hatchlings move overland and it is recommended that prescribed burns should be avoided during these times.

[18] The U.S. states in which it is considered endangered are Indiana,[19] Illinois, Missouri,[20] Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and South Dakota.

[22][23] In Michigan, Blanding's turtle is also fully protected as a special concern species,[24] making it unlawful to kill, take, trap, possess, buy, or sell.

[28] Conservation and recovery efforts in Nova Scotia have been in place for two decades and rely on habitat and life history monitoring based on the work of researchers and volunteers.

In Pleasant River, Nova Scotia Nature Trust protects four separate segments of critical habitat.