Turtles

Meet Charlette & Nebula!

Common Name: Northern Map Turtle
Scientific Name: Graptemys geographica
A group of them is called: A bale, turn, dole or nest.
We just call them: "Charlette" and "Nebula"

Size: shell is 8 - 16 cm (males) / 18 - 26 cm (females)
Weight: 150 - 2,500 g
Lifespan: 20+ years (wild), 5.5-15 years (captivity)
Diet: Omnivore

CHARLETTE'S STORY

When Charles (aka Charl-"ette"!) was dropped off to us at Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue, she had been kept illegally as a pet and now cannot be released into the wild.

NEBULA'S STORY

Nebula was brought to us by a caring bypasser who found her on the side of the road. She is missing both of her front limbs, and so cannot be released into the wild to care for herself. However, she can and will live out a happy and safe life here with us.

Meet Fred!

Common Name: Eastern Musk, or "Stink Pot" Turtle
Scientific Name: Sternotherus odoratus
A group of them is called: A bale, turn, dole or nest.
We just call him: "Fred"

Size: 5 – 14 cm (length)
Weight: 600 – 603 g
Lifespan: 30 - 40 years
Diet: Omnivore

FRED'S STORY

Fred was born in captivity and cannot be released into the wild. He lives a happy life here at Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue, helping us to educate future generations.

Meet Wilbur!

Common Name: Red-Eared Slider
Scientific Name: Trachemys scripta elegans
A group of them is called: A bale, turn, dole or nest.
We just call him: "Wilbur"

Size: 15 - 20 cm, sometimes larger (length)
Weight: up to 3.2kg (males are smaller than females)
Lifespan: ~ 50 years (wild), 20-40 years (captivity)
Diet: Omnivore

Invasive Species

Red-eared sliders are commonly found in pet stores everywhere. Sadly, they have been introduced into our ecosystem as well, being set free when they grow too large! They are becoming a threat to our native turtle species now, because they are overtaking resources and basking spots, forcing native species to move on. Please, be responsible; do your research before purchasing any pet!

WILBUR'S STORY

Before Wilbur came to live with us at Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue, he lived as a pet. He was surrendered here, as he cannot be released into the wild. Firstly, because he is an invasive species, meaning red-eared sliders are not native to Ontario. Secondly, because he was a pet, he will lack the basic skills he needs to survive without someone to feed and house him. Wilbur is now a member of our Animal Ambassador team!