This box turtle has been a frequent summer visitor to the front porch of the farmhouse the last two summers — and we’ve been watching for it this year and wondering if it survived the winter. Its cracked, battered shell makes it easily recognizable. The grown dogs recognized it and paid no attention as it [...]

Today Bebe encountered her first snapping turtle. I spotted this one crossing the grass near the kitchen garden and hurried inside for the camera, hoping the dogs wouldn’t notice it until I returned. No such luck. Blue and Ralphie, both older and turtle-wise, observed from a safe distance while Bebe investigated. She barked. She pounced. [...]

Damp creek mud filled the rough crevices of its shell, and bits of algae and moss clung here and there. I wonder how many times I’ve passed this fellow and thought just another stone in the creek bed.

Interesting eyes on this rugged, gnarled face.