Ornata and luteola are almost strict insectivores in the wild. It would be hard to find an area in Texas that didn't have hourds of grasshoppers, one of ornata's primary food sources. What were you referring to as a "year-round food source"?

Great job Ratz! I know how hard it is to release a hatchling when all you want to do is keep and dote upon it. It must be especially difficult with ornata, they have such strong personalities from the minute they emerge from the egg.

This is a hatchling of mine, kept far from their native range. I don't know if I could release if even if I had to.

T.o.luteola - wow! I need to update my photos. I know I keep saying that. This turtle has doubled his/her size.

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