Posting 1 of 3 in this SERIES. Three images of a Snapping Turtle looking for a spot to lay its eggs.

Top Image: The turtle comes out of the swamp next to the lane way to our cottage.


The turtle checks out the gravel parking lot in behind our cottage for a suitable place to dig a hole for its eggs. Note the gravel is well packed down. The turtle tries digging at several locations before finally selecting a spot right next to one of my flower gardens.


The turtle slowly and methodically digs a hole in the hard gravel about 200 mm (8 inches) deep. It digs with its hind claws, and alternately brings up a small scoop with the left, then right legs/claws. As it digs, it pushed the dug gravel back away from the hole. It is not in the least bit disturbed by the presence of my Grandson and myself just a few meters away. It seems that it has no choice as the eggs are ready to be laid. But, that's for the next posting.


CONTINUED - (Click "Next" for Posting 2 of 3)