Turtles on the Move - Part II

Ok, it's done. The turtles are officially moved. Instead of their aquarium tank with ability to move their pump, filter et al, they are now in a glorious kidney shaped pond complete with basking deck, concrete block and stones; powerful pump to create a great whirlpool/current, and lots of diving room. Even though the pump has a great push to it, there are still spots the turtles can just lay back and lull in the water. (Yes, there is a wire fence to keep them happy and safe in their new environment). At first, they were cautious and nervous - but they loved the diving ability! Ick, by far the largest, took to staying on the bottom for long periods, causing panic in our household: Is she okay, did she find and lodge out a rock? Yes to all of these questions - no matter how we build their environment, our construction turtles manage to reinvent and remodel. Some quick adjustments and we were happier. Of course the turtles still manage to scare us as they find new ways to look stuck - and their attitude as we try to save them from themselves is one of total distain - and rightly so. Us humans in our ignorance doubt their ability to look after themselves and each other.

Yet at first no one used that wonderful deck and basking area. We'd show them, take them out of the water, place them carefully on the deck, and stand back for the ensuing splash as each one dived to the safety of the water. Slowly, though, late at night, each one tested the outer area - at first just part sticking out, sniffing like a dog at a new exciting scent - ready to splash into the darker waters at a moment's notice of a human. Last night, we carefully watched as one starting to come out - as we approached it ran out on the deck and into the protective fence - and of course immediately retreated into its shell for protection. We couldn't help it - we laughed so loud the turtle was insulted, and immediately bolted to the other side of the fence, to again retreat into its shell. As we bent to put it back to the safety of the water - with the speed of an arrow, four legs were on the ground and spinning towards the water - yes, we were splashed with the ensuing dive! Who says turtles are slow on land??

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