Eastern Box Turtle © Kevin McCarthy

Take 5: Turtle Takeover

There are 10 species of turtles in Massachusetts, ranging from the tiny bog turtle, which measures 3-4” long, to the prehistoric-looking snapping turtle, which can grow up to 19” long. In addition, five sea turtles visit our shores, occasionally becoming stranded on beaches. Although many turtle species live in the water, all must breathe air and lay eggs on land.

With so much variety, it’s hard not to love these impressive, ancient reptiles, so here are five photos of native turtle species from past entries to our Picture This: Your Great Outdoors photo contest.

Please remember, although it’s wonderful to observe and appreciate turtles from a distance, it’s usually best to leave them to their business, especially those species that are protected by state or federal endangered species acts. Learn more about what to do in various turtle encounters on our website.

Snapping Turtle © Jim Morelly

Snapping Turtle © Jim Morelly

Wood Turtle © Jim Morelly

Wood Turtle © Jim Morelly

Painted Turtle © John Aberhart

Painted Turtle © John Aberhart

Eastern Box Turtle © Kevin McCarthy

Eastern Box Turtle © Kevin McCarthy

Diamond-backed Terrapin © Alyse Roe

Diamond-backed Terrapin © Alyse Roe

Cedar Waxwing © Stephen Kent

A Sweet Bird-a-thon Victory

The rain may have dampened their scopes, but definitely not their spirits. Congratulations to these winning teams!

Cedar Waxwing © Stephen Kent

With an impressive 237 species, the winner of the Brewster Cup (most species recorded statewide) is: Team Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary

This year’s Forbush Award winner (2nd place in species recorded statewide) is back in the winner’s circle with 231 species: Team Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary

And, we are thrilled to welcome our 2018 County Cup winner to the winners’ circle (highest percentage of county par value): Team Arcadia and the Connecticut River Valley Sanctuaries (Hampshire County, 152/140, 109%)

Stay tuned for a master list of species recorded during Bird-a-thon 2018. Want to contribute to the Bird-a-thon 2018 photo album? Email us your photos. View the Album→

The Competition Continues

The birding may be over, but you still have time to help your favorite team raise important funds. Fundraising totals, awards, and prizes for teams and individuals are announced in mid-June. Donate→

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