Since the spring of 2000 Don Orris has been conducting a box turtle survey. This survey encompasses the mist and the surrounding environs. The big surprise is that Don has found over 150 unique box turtles in this area and is still finding more.
How can he be sure that all of these box turtles
are unique?
Each turtle has a unique mark and is recorded digitally.
Don and his turtle finding dog, Kestrel, walk
specific circuits every day during turtle season (May - September).
Each sighting is recorded and compared with previous sightings. By keeping such detailed data, Don is able to determine the traveling habits of the turtles. And has been surprised at the distance they travel.
He has found a spot that he calls the "Meet & Greet" area. It is a field that is farmed and connects directly to the Mist. Here the turtles sun, mate and feed. Don and Kestrel spend hours each day at the Meet & Greet observing, recording and photographing the turtles. Turtles appear to come great distances to the Meet & Greet.
We will be posting some of Don's findings shortly, however we are in the middle of the "season" so check back and we will have more info for your Box turtle pleasure.
Ó 2008 - Mickey Wesler - Mountain Path Media