Jill took this short video after the dogs freaked-out about this interloper on the septic mound (Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment System). We think she materialized Tuesday evening to excavate a nest to lay her eggs in the sandy substrate. This ancient reptile is so old she has moss growing on her carapace and she is almost as big as the bushel basket.
This is Wisconsin’s largest turtle species with some specimens growing to fifty pounds. The female reaches sexual maturation at about twelve years and will travel a great distance to find a suitable spot to lay her eggs. This reptile has few enemies as it will defend itself by facing its tormentor directly. With its long neck this beast can reach half the length of its shell to strike and bite.
One more reason not to go skinning-dipping in the pond...
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment