Met a beautiful box turtle I moved out of the flood waters to higher ground.

No pics because was during the hurricane, soaked to the bone trying to clear debris at points to allow more drainage. Four inches deep easily, we had 6.5 total fall. Even the barn flooded. Luckily we have good drainage once the rain stops.

Turtle was standing up, front feet on fence trying to keep it's head above water. Didn't struggle at first when I picked it up, likely exhausted.

Neon orange markings on it's head, very striking, unlike the ones I've seen here before. Also had damage to the back of the shell several small points along the spine and one near the front edge to the right of the head. Wasn't sure of the cause, but seemed to be healing. Maybe dog bite? I don't think a car or tractor would make those holes and leave it otherwise unharmed.

#turtles #Herpstodon #hurricane