Each year, I enjoy seeing turtles pass through my yard here in Arkansas. It’s always a slow and quiet surprise when one appears, especially since they blend in so well with the grassy ground. On April 28, 2025, I photographed this Box Turtle making its way across the yard, moving at its usual deliberate pace. I never know where they’re headed, but they seem to have a purpose.
Over the past couple of years, these turtle sightings have become something I look forward to. I even had a Red-eared Slider lay eggs in my yard last May. I wrote about that incredible moment in this blog post: Witnessing a Red-eared Slider Laying Eggs. It was a reminder of how much wildlife activity happens right under our noses if we take the time to notice.
Last July, I spotted another turtle and included the experience in this post: A Day with Bluebirds, Robins, and Turtles. That day was a great mix of wildlife, with the turtle adding a bit of calm and character to the morning.
I often wonder how many turtles pass through without me ever noticing. Their quiet movements and earthy tones make them easy to miss, especially in tall grass or shady patches. That’s why I’m always careful when mowing. I slow down and scan the area first, making sure I don’t harm any hidden visitors.
Living in a place where turtles roam freely through my yard is something I don’t take for granted. It’s a small but special connection to the wild world around me.