Where have you been all my life?

Perhaps it’s the warmer days.
Perhaps it’s the softer earth.
Whatever the appeal, the turtles sense it.

In the course of the last week, I’ve crossed paths with four—all different species, yet all on the move for the same reason.
It’s egg-laying time.

I’ve come across box turtles, painted turtles and snapping turtles on our property many times in the 15 years we’ve lived here. Its pond and wooded areas, the habitat they enjoy. Each time, an opportunity to stop and watch the event—I mark the location for future reference.
All too often, to find that raccoons have found buried treasure there, soon afterward.

And, although Ohio is known to be home for 12 species, I’ve never found any the remaining 9, here, on this 15-acre property.


Until last Friday.
When I found this very large Red-eared slider in the grass.
She was huge.
And very slow-moving.


Her shell, not much to look at from above, but intricately decorated on its interior edges.


And at about the 12-inch maximum of their size.



Could she be older than I?
This turtle that lives 50-70 years?
And I’ve never seen before?

Perhaps that’s how she does it.

In reading about Red eared sliders, I found that they were extensively used in the pet market. Now, there are turtle rescue organizations that give these gentle, thoughtful creatures homes. Part of the application process for rescuing a Red Eared Slider includes a "Turtle Will"--provision for its care after your death, as they are likely to outlive their human caretaker.