They were doing private things.
I mean, there are a hundred places in the yard where they could be doing this without me seeing (and photographing), so the fact that they chose under the deck, pretty much in the open, well, that's on them. So here's their private moment turned public.
He's got stern features and some nice arms (and claws):
She seems more colorful and friendlier somehow:
I like the two dots on the back of her head.
They were just frozen there. Maybe I startled them. Maybe that's just how turtle love goes.
Twenty minutes later when I checked again he was nowhere to be found.
She does have some nice shell markings:
Sort of looks like muddy raccoon paws were all over her. Perhaps they evolved that way to reduce the harassment by raccoons? (Because as camouflage it's not working!)
And an hour later she was gone as well:
There was a little hollow there so I wasn't sure if she was going to lay eggs or not. I suppose it takes a bit longer than an hour for the eggs to form though. Will I see where she lays them like I did that one time?
You know, maybe there are turtles doing this all over my yard. I'd never know.
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We have a few natural ponds near our house where we frequently stumble upon big snappers in the throes of turtle love. They do their lovin' in the water. It's turbulent to say the least. And every single time I find myself thinking "oh, excuse me!" and averting my eyes. Ha!
ReplyDeleteSo many busy turtles at your place. Do you ever see any little baby turtles in your garden? I haven't seen any turtles in my yard for decades. I wish I would sometime.
ReplyDeleteLisa: :)
ReplyDeleteSusie: Baby box turtles are rarely seen in the wild apparently. I'd love to see one!
Thanks for the reptile porn. Just like a male to love her and leave her to raise the family by herself. Oh wait, she lays the eggs and leaves. Must be lonely to be a baby turtle.
ReplyDelete