This particular turtle first came to the property in 2005 and was seen again in 2006 and 2009. A picture of the turtle's plastron (bottom shell) was taken each time she was on the property and compared. The unique markings were identical, indicating that this is the same turtle coming to lay her eggs.
Spotted Turtles are approximately 5 inches in length. Sexual maturity is reached at 8-10 years and most individuals live for at least 25 years. Some members of this species can reach 50 years of age.
Assuming the turtle on the property was 8 years old in 2005, she may be 16 years or older now.
You can also see the 2009 photos of this turtle on this blog located under the June entries.
We have named her "Polka-Dot Lily" -- we hope to see you for many more years to come!!
Nice! Spotted Turtles are declining nationwide, but I've seen several in the Shelton Lakes open space. Recently I saw four sunning themselves on the same log right next to the Rec Path. Some years ago I watched one eating frog eggs at what we call the "J Pond" bridge. All the swamps and vernal pools are just what they like, and no road crossings, so the preservation of the Nells Rock area was good news for the turtles.
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