As tidal flats warm in the May sunshine, the northernmost diamondback terrapins emerge from brumation and laze about the Run south of Lieutenant Island on the Outer Cape. This young female savors the return of springtime in the Land of Ooze.
Young Female Terrapin Swims in Sun-Warmed Tidal Pool
Mid to late May terrapins gather in mating aggregations in the Land of Ooze where we sample them for capture-mark-recapture population studies. On release they love to play in tidal creeks and streams as they head back into the Run south of Lieutenant Island.
Released Terrapins Head Back into Wellfleet Bay
Within the diamondback terrapin world view, if the turtle can’t see you, then you can’t see the turtle. So, as long as the terrapin pokes its head deep into a seaweed clump and can’t see a thing, then it must be invisible. Blind equals invisible.
Terrapin Hides in Grassy Bottom of Chipman’s Cove
Who said that turtles are slow? Try to keep up with this diamondback terrapin racing through salt marsh and seaweed along the Chipman’s Cove shoreline.
Terrapin Demonstrates Speed & Agility in Chipman’s Cove