Hi all,

I'm brand new (as in about 5 seconds, lol) to this board...I joined specifically because of something I've located in my yard that might be a possible Box Turtle nest. I've not actually seen the "mystery turtle", but I've found a caved-in, pinestraw-covered tunnel located at the base of a very large Nandina bush in my front yard. The nest appears to be about a foot deep, and I never would have noticed it, but for my two dogs nosing under the bush repeatedly about a month ago. My first instinct was to steer them away from the nest altogether, as I was afraid it was some sort of a snake's nest (shiver...I'm TERRIFIED of snakes!!!!), but they were pretty respectful of the area, no digging or pawing, just lots of sniffing. However, I was afraid I couldn't drag them away on leash quickly enough if a snake DID appear and strike at them (YIKES), but I was additionally afraid I'd have a large heart attack and die on the spot if something slithered over my ankle (ERRRGGGG).

As of yesterday, I've been informed by next door neighbors that a "very large" turtle has been seen walking down my driveway and in our adjoining backyards (empty, heavily forested land). I'm ELATED to think that this pinestraw-hidden cavern under my Nandina might be a turtle nest, I just need help in identifying it. If I can post figure out how to post a picture here (or email any of you directly), could I please request some assistance in identifying whether this is an actual nest, or just a really big sinkhole under the Nandina shrub? Lol. I'd LOVE to co-exist w/ a "large" (neighbors were unable to illucidate as to whether the term meant bigger or smaller than a bread box... )Box Turtle and would do anything suggested to protect it from predators, feed it and make it's life a little happier.

Thanks in advance for your help and advice!!

Jenn in N.C.

[ Show Entire Thread ]