The red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)

[Eric Gofreed]

I noticed a community pond a year ago when visiting my daughter in Houston. It was a new addition to the community and it was devoid of life. This year, there were hundreds of turtles and waterfowl would visit in the early morning only to leave when people came to the pond. The turtles do the opposite. They come to people because most people bring them food. So how did 100s of turtles come to live in this small pond? A turtle pond not far away was being drained for a housing project. The management company saved the turtles and brought them to the new pond.

 

[AlanLichty]

Nothing like good handouts to keep the population bustling. I like the profile shot in #1 - nice portrait.

I do have to wonder about the nutrition of the diet they are getting with the handouts.

 

[Ben Egbert]

Great images, the first is outstanding for the pose.

 

[Jameel Hyder]

A pretty colorful dude. I like the pose in the first image.

 

[JimFox]

Very cool Eric! That's a great way to save the turtles. And turtles are very fun to watch.

 

[Jim Dockery]

Great pictures and nice story.