Where can baby indigenous turtles find a cozy home for the winter? At ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center of course! For the fourth year, a cadre of Spiny Softshell, Northern Map, and Painted turtles will be spending the winter safely housed within ECHO’s walls.

ECHO Animal Care Staff will bolster the stewardship and awareness effort with demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. that allow guests to see the turtles up-close, highlight the various species’ unique adaptations, and point out their roles in the ecosystem. “The over-winter turtles are the ultimate animal ambassador for ECHO,” lauds Steve Smith, Director of Facilities and Exhibits. “The opportunity for stewardship that this project offers is one that is personally rewarding and also creates a wonderful learning experience for all ECHO visitors.”

Many people know ECHO as a great resource for experiencing local critters, but ECHO also has animals that only “winter” on-site. Through the efforts of Vermont State Biologist Steven Parren and volunteers, ECHO has helped hundreds of animals get a “head-start” before being re-released into their natural habitat.

The Spiny Softshell turtles are an especially high priority for conservation because of their small population, habitat loss, egg predation, and disturbances near their nesting areas.  The turtles come to ECHO after being rescued by Vermont Fish and Wildlife volunteers during an annual habitat and nest protection effort at various locations around the state.

Through the dedication of Parren, and the daily care provided by ECHO Animal Care, these turtles will be given a second chance — and when released next spring, they will support our mutual goal of enhancing the population of turtles in the Lake Champlain Basin.

So this winter, don’t miss the unique chance to experience these adorable hatchlings before they venture back into the wilds of the Lake Champlain Basin.

Filed under: Community, Education