The current range of the red-bellied turtle includes a population in Massachusetts, the Plymouth red-bellied turtle, which was previously considered a distinct subspecies (Pseudemys rubriventris bangsi) as well as the coastal areas of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina.

The red-bellied turtle has appeared on Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission lists of endangered amphibians and reptiles since 1978 (McCoy 1985).

By 1985 the red-bellied turtle was known to exist in Pennsylvania only in isolated colonies in a few counties (McCoy 1985).

However, the Plymouth red-bellied turtle distinct population segment is listed as endangered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service[6] as well as the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (Massachusetts).

Primary threats include wetland loss, habitat fragmentation, pollution, collecting of turtles for pets, food or other trophies, competition with the invasive red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys scripta elegans) for food, habitat, basking sites or nesting sites, and the potential for hybridization with red-eared slider turtles.