Top Photo: Just out of nest, this yellow bellied slider was headed for the water when it was noticed and picked up by visitors.
April has arrived, a big month in the Carolina Piedmont, a transitional month.
Turtles that have spent the winter in the ground where their mothers deposited them as eggs last summer are making their way to water to begin the next phase of their lives. If they make it past this first summer they stand a good chance to make it past thirty years or more.
Early season dragonflies like the blue corporal (below), lancet clubtail and common baskettail are emerging from the water to begin the adult, aerial stage of their lives.
Tent caterpillars have begun to construct protective tents on their host black cherry trees.
Pickerel frogs are mostly done here in our wetland, eggs will soon become tadpoles.
Ground skinks are prowling the trail edges for tiny insects and other invertebrates to prey upon.
These slender skinks slither rather than walk or run.
Virginia bluebells, witch hazel and black willow are some of the plants currently in bloom.
Winter visitors prepare to depart. Early migrants arrive.
Adult turtles and Canada geese are sharing a new addition to our wetlands (meant for the turtles), a floating basking pad. Basking space has become limited in the wetland pond area and, once again, our crack exhibits team came to the rescue with an experimental floating platform for the turtles to recline, catch some rays, and get rid of pesky parasites.
So, brave the pollen and humidity and come on out to see for yourself what’s going on in Explore the Wild, Catch the Wind and the Dinosaur Trail.
By the way, if you happen to come across a “baby” turtle on the path, the best thing to do is leave it be. They’re headed towards the water of the wetlands and can do quite well on their own. Their kind have been doing it for millions of years. If you can’t resist and have already picked one up please seek me out, or another staff member, and we will deal with it (take it to the pond). Thank you for your concern. Oh yeah, young turtles tend to carry salmonella, so do wash you hands after handling a turtle.
Ranger Greg