A turtle's shell has veins. A hole causes disfiguration, can cause bleeding and infection, and is painful. It doesn't usually work either, as these little critters are strong and can easily break away. Many people think wood turtles will make good pets, but what they fail to realize is that, as with all wild animals, the turtles require special diets and attention. Once this is discovered, the owner often releases the turtle, but not always in the right habitat.
Wood turtles feed on aquatic insects and tadpoles found along slow-moving streams.
Racoons frequently predate nests, and hatchlings are vulnerable to other predators. An adult turtle is important in sustaining populations. Each summer the Museum Nature Centre is temporary home to a variety of amphibians and reptiles like Marina. They are a teaching tool, educating young and old about the behaviour, care, habitat and animal sensitivity. Throughout their stay, proper feeding and care is given in preparation for release back into the wild and the long winter ahead.