TURTLE TRACKS
The Earthshine Mountain Lodge Eastern Box Turtle Conservation and Research Program.
Earthshine Mountain Lodge is working with The Turtle Connection (BTC) research project to collect census, habitat and movement data on the Eastern Box Turtle in North Carolina.
The purpose of the "Turtle Tracks" research project is to track Eastern Box Turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) on the property of Earthshine Mountain Lodge. Why you may ask? There are several reasons.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
1. Discovery. Where does a box turtle go, what it does it do? What different types of food does it eat? How many different types of habitat does it use? These are all questions that the Turtle Tracks study is working to help answer. The data generated by this study is valuable information for naturalists, herpetologists and wildlife conservationists--such as the BTC, UNCG the NC Zoo and NCWRC--who will be able to use this information to better manage box turtle populations in their local areas and across their entire range.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
2. Education. The Turtle Tracks program will offer excellent nature education opportunities for Earthshine's visitors that are interested in learning about the plight faced by the Eastern Box Turtle and it's vanishing habitat and what we can do to help our State Reptile. This program also introduces the participants to the other native plants and animals that share habitat with the box turtle as well as wildlife research and management techniques and science education opportunities.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
3. Hands on, exciting and fun experiential learning. It is one thing to read about wildlife in a book or watch it on TV but to actually get the chance to go out in the field and assist with wildlife study and research--now that leaves a lasting impression on a person--an impression that may grow into a passion for studying, preserving and protecting the wildlife and their habitats from our own back yard to entire ecosystems.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
While tracking turtles may seem a bit boring and slow compared to oh...Tiger, Elephant or Crocodile tracking...it really is a fascinating way to study the life of a very shy, secretive and very endearing creature--a creature whose very existence is threatened by the day to day activities of humans.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
How does it work? First we have to find several resident box turtles on the property of Earthshine. We usually find the turtles by accident as someone is driving along the driveway, walking to one of our many "outdoor classroom" areas on the property or a guest may find one and bring it back to the lodge. Occasionally, our friend John Rucker will bring his specially trained 'turtle dogs" to Earthshine to locate turtles by their scent--this is truly an amazing thing to watch so check it out in the short video below!
After we find a turtle we collect location, health and measurement data and then usually release the turtle where it was found and hope to see it again one day. A few special turtles have received micro-radio telemetry transmitters to facilitate the periodic tracking of their movements, habitat use and interactions with other turtles and wildlife on the mountain.
Transmitters will be attached to each turtle's shell by using a glue-on method that will not harm the animal. The attachment method is similar to the artificial fingernails many ladies wear. Once attached, the transmitter will appear as in the above photo of Bones or the below photo of Mojo. Placement will depend on the weight of the turtle, weight of the transmitter and sex of the turtle. Males, such as Bones and Mojo may have their transmitters mounted on the top or back of the shell but females must have their transmitter mounted on the top or side so it will not interfere with mating. Transmitters will stay attached for up to several years until the battery needs to be replaced. They will then be replaced with a fresh unit and tracking will continue.
I will be using two different transmitters--Telenax models TXB 125G and TXB 124GandAVM model SB 2. The receiver is anICOM IC-R10and two different antenna models: a Telonics RA-14 H-type directional and an Arrow, Yagi type 3 element directional antenna. The transmitter (AVM), receiver (ICOM) and Arrow antenna package can be seen in the photo below.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Earthshine Mountain Lodge is working with The Turtle Connection (BTC) research project to collect census, habitat and movement data on the Eastern Box Turtle in North Carolina.
The purpose of the "Turtle Tracks" research project is to track Eastern Box Turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) on the property of Earthshine Mountain Lodge. Why you may ask? There are several reasons.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
1. Discovery. Where does a box turtle go, what it does it do? What different types of food does it eat? How many different types of habitat does it use? These are all questions that the Turtle Tracks study is working to help answer. The data generated by this study is valuable information for naturalists, herpetologists and wildlife conservationists--such as the BTC, UNCG the NC Zoo and NCWRC--who will be able to use this information to better manage box turtle populations in their local areas and across their entire range.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
2. Education. The Turtle Tracks program will offer excellent nature education opportunities for Earthshine's visitors that are interested in learning about the plight faced by the Eastern Box Turtle and it's vanishing habitat and what we can do to help our State Reptile. This program also introduces the participants to the other native plants and animals that share habitat with the box turtle as well as wildlife research and management techniques and science education opportunities.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
3. Hands on, exciting and fun experiential learning. It is one thing to read about wildlife in a book or watch it on TV but to actually get the chance to go out in the field and assist with wildlife study and research--now that leaves a lasting impression on a person--an impression that may grow into a passion for studying, preserving and protecting the wildlife and their habitats from our own back yard to entire ecosystems.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
While tracking turtles may seem a bit boring and slow compared to oh...Tiger, Elephant or Crocodile tracking...it really is a fascinating way to study the life of a very shy, secretive and very endearing creature--a creature whose very existence is threatened by the day to day activities of humans.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
How does it work? First we have to find several resident box turtles on the property of Earthshine. We usually find the turtles by accident as someone is driving along the driveway, walking to one of our many "outdoor classroom" areas on the property or a guest may find one and bring it back to the lodge. Occasionally, our friend John Rucker will bring his specially trained 'turtle dogs" to Earthshine to locate turtles by their scent--this is truly an amazing thing to watch so check it out in the short video below!
After we find a turtle we collect location, health and measurement data and then usually release the turtle where it was found and hope to see it again one day. A few special turtles have received micro-radio telemetry transmitters to facilitate the periodic tracking of their movements, habitat use and interactions with other turtles and wildlife on the mountain.
Transmitters will be attached to each turtle's shell by using a glue-on method that will not harm the animal. The attachment method is similar to the artificial fingernails many ladies wear. Once attached, the transmitter will appear as in the above photo of Bones or the below photo of Mojo. Placement will depend on the weight of the turtle, weight of the transmitter and sex of the turtle. Males, such as Bones and Mojo may have their transmitters mounted on the top or back of the shell but females must have their transmitter mounted on the top or side so it will not interfere with mating. Transmitters will stay attached for up to several years until the battery needs to be replaced. They will then be replaced with a fresh unit and tracking will continue.
I will be using two different transmitters--Telenax models TXB 125G and TXB 124GandAVM model SB 2. The receiver is anICOM IC-R10and two different antenna models: a Telonics RA-14 H-type directional and an Arrow, Yagi type 3 element directional antenna. The transmitter (AVM), receiver (ICOM) and Arrow antenna package can be seen in the photo below.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
1. Discovery. Where does a box turtle go, what it does it do? What different types of food does it eat? How many different types of habitat does it use? These are all questions that the Turtle Tracks study is working to help answer. The data generated by this study is valuable information for naturalists, herpetologists and wildlife conservationists--such as the BTC, UNCG the NC Zoo and NCWRC--who will be able to use this information to better manage box turtle populations in their local areas and across their entire range.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
2. Education. The Turtle Tracks program will offer excellent nature education opportunities for Earthshine's visitors that are interested in learning about the plight faced by the Eastern Box Turtle and it's vanishing habitat and what we can do to help our State Reptile. This program also introduces the participants to the other native plants and animals that share habitat with the box turtle as well as wildlife research and management techniques and science education opportunities.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
3. Hands on, exciting and fun experiential learning. It is one thing to read about wildlife in a book or watch it on TV but to actually get the chance to go out in the field and assist with wildlife study and research--now that leaves a lasting impression on a person--an impression that may grow into a passion for studying, preserving and protecting the wildlife and their habitats from our own back yard to entire ecosystems.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
While tracking turtles may seem a bit boring and slow compared to oh...Tiger, Elephant or Crocodile tracking...it really is a fascinating way to study the life of a very shy, secretive and very endearing creature--a creature whose very existence is threatened by the day to day activities of humans.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
How does it work? First we have to find several resident box turtles on the property of Earthshine. We usually find the turtles by accident as someone is driving along the driveway, walking to one of our many "outdoor classroom" areas on the property or a guest may find one and bring it back to the lodge. Occasionally, our friend John Rucker will bring his specially trained 'turtle dogs" to Earthshine to locate turtles by their scent--this is truly an amazing thing to watch so check it out in the short video below!
After we find a turtle we collect location, health and measurement data and then usually release the turtle where it was found and hope to see it again one day. A few special turtles have received micro-radio telemetry transmitters to facilitate the periodic tracking of their movements, habitat use and interactions with other turtles and wildlife on the mountain.
Transmitters will be attached to each turtle's shell by using a glue-on method that will not harm the animal. The attachment method is similar to the artificial fingernails many ladies wear. Once attached, the transmitter will appear as in the above photo of Bones or the below photo of Mojo. Placement will depend on the weight of the turtle, weight of the transmitter and sex of the turtle. Males, such as Bones and Mojo may have their transmitters mounted on the top or back of the shell but females must have their transmitter mounted on the top or side so it will not interfere with mating. Transmitters will stay attached for up to several years until the battery needs to be replaced. They will then be replaced with a fresh unit and tracking will continue.
I will be using two different transmitters--Telenax models TXB 125G and TXB 124GandAVM model SB 2. The receiver is anICOM IC-R10and two different antenna models: a Telonics RA-14 H-type directional and an Arrow, Yagi type 3 element directional antenna. The transmitter (AVM), receiver (ICOM) and Arrow antenna package can be seen in the photo below.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
1. Discovery. Where does a box turtle go, what it does it do? What different types of food does it eat? How many different types of habitat does it use? These are all questions that the Turtle Tracks study is working to help answer. The data generated by this study is valuable information for naturalists, herpetologists and wildlife conservationists--such as the BTC, UNCG the NC Zoo and NCWRC--who will be able to use this information to better manage box turtle populations in their local areas and across their entire range.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
2. Education. The Turtle Tracks program will offer excellent nature education opportunities for Earthshine's visitors that are interested in learning about the plight faced by the Eastern Box Turtle and it's vanishing habitat and what we can do to help our State Reptile. This program also introduces the participants to the other native plants and animals that share habitat with the box turtle as well as wildlife research and management techniques and science education opportunities.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
3. Hands on, exciting and fun experiential learning. It is one thing to read about wildlife in a book or watch it on TV but to actually get the chance to go out in the field and assist with wildlife study and research--now that leaves a lasting impression on a person--an impression that may grow into a passion for studying, preserving and protecting the wildlife and their habitats from our own back yard to entire ecosystems.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
While tracking turtles may seem a bit boring and slow compared to oh...Tiger, Elephant or Crocodile tracking...it really is a fascinating way to study the life of a very shy, secretive and very endearing creature--a creature whose very existence is threatened by the day to day activities of humans.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
How does it work? First we have to find several resident box turtles on the property of Earthshine. We usually find the turtles by accident as someone is driving along the driveway, walking to one of our many "outdoor classroom" areas on the property or a guest may find one and bring it back to the lodge. Occasionally, our friend John Rucker will bring his specially trained 'turtle dogs" to Earthshine to locate turtles by their scent--this is truly an amazing thing to watch so check it out in the short video below!
After we find a turtle we collect location, health and measurement data and then usually release the turtle where it was found and hope to see it again one day. A few special turtles have received micro-radio telemetry transmitters to facilitate the periodic tracking of their movements, habitat use and interactions with other turtles and wildlife on the mountain.
Transmitters will be attached to each turtle's shell by using a glue-on method that will not harm the animal. The attachment method is similar to the artificial fingernails many ladies wear. Once attached, the transmitter will appear as in the above photo of Bones or the below photo of Mojo. Placement will depend on the weight of the turtle, weight of the transmitter and sex of the turtle. Males, such as Bones and Mojo may have their transmitters mounted on the top or back of the shell but females must have their transmitter mounted on the top or side so it will not interfere with mating. Transmitters will stay attached for up to several years until the battery needs to be replaced. They will then be replaced with a fresh unit and tracking will continue.
I will be using two different transmitters--Telenax models TXB 125G and TXB 124GandAVM model SB 2. The receiver is anICOM IC-R10and two different antenna models: a Telonics RA-14 H-type directional and an Arrow, Yagi type 3 element directional antenna. The transmitter (AVM), receiver (ICOM) and Arrow antenna package can be seen in the photo below.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
2. Education. The Turtle Tracks program will offer excellent nature education opportunities for Earthshine's visitors that are interested in learning about the plight faced by the Eastern Box Turtle and it's vanishing habitat and what we can do to help our State Reptile. This program also introduces the participants to the other native plants and animals that share habitat with the box turtle as well as wildlife research and management techniques and science education opportunities.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
3. Hands on, exciting and fun experiential learning. It is one thing to read about wildlife in a book or watch it on TV but to actually get the chance to go out in the field and assist with wildlife study and research--now that leaves a lasting impression on a person--an impression that may grow into a passion for studying, preserving and protecting the wildlife and their habitats from our own back yard to entire ecosystems.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
While tracking turtles may seem a bit boring and slow compared to oh...Tiger, Elephant or Crocodile tracking...it really is a fascinating way to study the life of a very shy, secretive and very endearing creature--a creature whose very existence is threatened by the day to day activities of humans.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
How does it work? First we have to find several resident box turtles on the property of Earthshine. We usually find the turtles by accident as someone is driving along the driveway, walking to one of our many "outdoor classroom" areas on the property or a guest may find one and bring it back to the lodge. Occasionally, our friend John Rucker will bring his specially trained 'turtle dogs" to Earthshine to locate turtles by their scent--this is truly an amazing thing to watch so check it out in the short video below!
After we find a turtle we collect location, health and measurement data and then usually release the turtle where it was found and hope to see it again one day. A few special turtles have received micro-radio telemetry transmitters to facilitate the periodic tracking of their movements, habitat use and interactions with other turtles and wildlife on the mountain.
Transmitters will be attached to each turtle's shell by using a glue-on method that will not harm the animal. The attachment method is similar to the artificial fingernails many ladies wear. Once attached, the transmitter will appear as in the above photo of Bones or the below photo of Mojo. Placement will depend on the weight of the turtle, weight of the transmitter and sex of the turtle. Males, such as Bones and Mojo may have their transmitters mounted on the top or back of the shell but females must have their transmitter mounted on the top or side so it will not interfere with mating. Transmitters will stay attached for up to several years until the battery needs to be replaced. They will then be replaced with a fresh unit and tracking will continue.
I will be using two different transmitters--Telenax models TXB 125G and TXB 124GandAVM model SB 2. The receiver is anICOM IC-R10and two different antenna models: a Telonics RA-14 H-type directional and an Arrow, Yagi type 3 element directional antenna. The transmitter (AVM), receiver (ICOM) and Arrow antenna package can be seen in the photo below.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
3. Hands on, exciting and fun experiential learning. It is one thing to read about wildlife in a book or watch it on TV but to actually get the chance to go out in the field and assist with wildlife study and research--now that leaves a lasting impression on a person--an impression that may grow into a passion for studying, preserving and protecting the wildlife and their habitats from our own back yard to entire ecosystems.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
While tracking turtles may seem a bit boring and slow compared to oh...Tiger, Elephant or Crocodile tracking...it really is a fascinating way to study the life of a very shy, secretive and very endearing creature--a creature whose very existence is threatened by the day to day activities of humans.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
How does it work? First we have to find several resident box turtles on the property of Earthshine. We usually find the turtles by accident as someone is driving along the driveway, walking to one of our many "outdoor classroom" areas on the property or a guest may find one and bring it back to the lodge. Occasionally, our friend John Rucker will bring his specially trained 'turtle dogs" to Earthshine to locate turtles by their scent--this is truly an amazing thing to watch so check it out in the short video below!
After we find a turtle we collect location, health and measurement data and then usually release the turtle where it was found and hope to see it again one day. A few special turtles have received micro-radio telemetry transmitters to facilitate the periodic tracking of their movements, habitat use and interactions with other turtles and wildlife on the mountain.
Transmitters will be attached to each turtle's shell by using a glue-on method that will not harm the animal. The attachment method is similar to the artificial fingernails many ladies wear. Once attached, the transmitter will appear as in the above photo of Bones or the below photo of Mojo. Placement will depend on the weight of the turtle, weight of the transmitter and sex of the turtle. Males, such as Bones and Mojo may have their transmitters mounted on the top or back of the shell but females must have their transmitter mounted on the top or side so it will not interfere with mating. Transmitters will stay attached for up to several years until the battery needs to be replaced. They will then be replaced with a fresh unit and tracking will continue.
I will be using two different transmitters--Telenax models TXB 125G and TXB 124GandAVM model SB 2. The receiver is anICOM IC-R10and two different antenna models: a Telonics RA-14 H-type directional and an Arrow, Yagi type 3 element directional antenna. The transmitter (AVM), receiver (ICOM) and Arrow antenna package can be seen in the photo below.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
3. Hands on, exciting and fun experiential learning. It is one thing to read about wildlife in a book or watch it on TV but to actually get the chance to go out in the field and assist with wildlife study and research--now that leaves a lasting impression on a person--an impression that may grow into a passion for studying, preserving and protecting the wildlife and their habitats from our own back yard to entire ecosystems.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
While tracking turtles may seem a bit boring and slow compared to oh...Tiger, Elephant or Crocodile tracking...it really is a fascinating way to study the life of a very shy, secretive and very endearing creature--a creature whose very existence is threatened by the day to day activities of humans.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
How does it work? First we have to find several resident box turtles on the property of Earthshine. We usually find the turtles by accident as someone is driving along the driveway, walking to one of our many "outdoor classroom" areas on the property or a guest may find one and bring it back to the lodge. Occasionally, our friend John Rucker will bring his specially trained 'turtle dogs" to Earthshine to locate turtles by their scent--this is truly an amazing thing to watch so check it out in the short video below!
After we find a turtle we collect location, health and measurement data and then usually release the turtle where it was found and hope to see it again one day. A few special turtles have received micro-radio telemetry transmitters to facilitate the periodic tracking of their movements, habitat use and interactions with other turtles and wildlife on the mountain.
Transmitters will be attached to each turtle's shell by using a glue-on method that will not harm the animal. The attachment method is similar to the artificial fingernails many ladies wear. Once attached, the transmitter will appear as in the above photo of Bones or the below photo of Mojo. Placement will depend on the weight of the turtle, weight of the transmitter and sex of the turtle. Males, such as Bones and Mojo may have their transmitters mounted on the top or back of the shell but females must have their transmitter mounted on the top or side so it will not interfere with mating. Transmitters will stay attached for up to several years until the battery needs to be replaced. They will then be replaced with a fresh unit and tracking will continue.
I will be using two different transmitters--Telenax models TXB 125G and TXB 124GandAVM model SB 2. The receiver is anICOM IC-R10and two different antenna models: a Telonics RA-14 H-type directional and an Arrow, Yagi type 3 element directional antenna. The transmitter (AVM), receiver (ICOM) and Arrow antenna package can be seen in the photo below.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
While tracking turtles may seem a bit boring and slow compared to oh...Tiger, Elephant or Crocodile tracking...it really is a fascinating way to study the life of a very shy, secretive and very endearing creature--a creature whose very existence is threatened by the day to day activities of humans.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
How does it work? First we have to find several resident box turtles on the property of Earthshine. We usually find the turtles by accident as someone is driving along the driveway, walking to one of our many "outdoor classroom" areas on the property or a guest may find one and bring it back to the lodge. Occasionally, our friend John Rucker will bring his specially trained 'turtle dogs" to Earthshine to locate turtles by their scent--this is truly an amazing thing to watch so check it out in the short video below!
After we find a turtle we collect location, health and measurement data and then usually release the turtle where it was found and hope to see it again one day. A few special turtles have received micro-radio telemetry transmitters to facilitate the periodic tracking of their movements, habitat use and interactions with other turtles and wildlife on the mountain.
Transmitters will be attached to each turtle's shell by using a glue-on method that will not harm the animal. The attachment method is similar to the artificial fingernails many ladies wear. Once attached, the transmitter will appear as in the above photo of Bones or the below photo of Mojo. Placement will depend on the weight of the turtle, weight of the transmitter and sex of the turtle. Males, such as Bones and Mojo may have their transmitters mounted on the top or back of the shell but females must have their transmitter mounted on the top or side so it will not interfere with mating. Transmitters will stay attached for up to several years until the battery needs to be replaced. They will then be replaced with a fresh unit and tracking will continue.
I will be using two different transmitters--Telenax models TXB 125G and TXB 124GandAVM model SB 2. The receiver is anICOM IC-R10and two different antenna models: a Telonics RA-14 H-type directional and an Arrow, Yagi type 3 element directional antenna. The transmitter (AVM), receiver (ICOM) and Arrow antenna package can be seen in the photo below.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
How does it work? First we have to find several resident box turtles on the property of Earthshine. We usually find the turtles by accident as someone is driving along the driveway, walking to one of our many "outdoor classroom" areas on the property or a guest may find one and bring it back to the lodge. Occasionally, our friend John Rucker will bring his specially trained 'turtle dogs" to Earthshine to locate turtles by their scent--this is truly an amazing thing to watch so check it out in the short video below!
After we find a turtle we collect location, health and measurement data and then usually release the turtle where it was found and hope to see it again one day. A few special turtles have received micro-radio telemetry transmitters to facilitate the periodic tracking of their movements, habitat use and interactions with other turtles and wildlife on the mountain.
Transmitters will be attached to each turtle's shell by using a glue-on method that will not harm the animal. The attachment method is similar to the artificial fingernails many ladies wear. Once attached, the transmitter will appear as in the above photo of Bones or the below photo of Mojo. Placement will depend on the weight of the turtle, weight of the transmitter and sex of the turtle. Males, such as Bones and Mojo may have their transmitters mounted on the top or back of the shell but females must have their transmitter mounted on the top or side so it will not interfere with mating. Transmitters will stay attached for up to several years until the battery needs to be replaced. They will then be replaced with a fresh unit and tracking will continue.
I will be using two different transmitters--Telenax models TXB 125G and TXB 124GandAVM model SB 2. The receiver is anICOM IC-R10and two different antenna models: a Telonics RA-14 H-type directional and an Arrow, Yagi type 3 element directional antenna. The transmitter (AVM), receiver (ICOM) and Arrow antenna package can be seen in the photo below.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
How does it work? First we have to find several resident box turtles on the property of Earthshine. We usually find the turtles by accident as someone is driving along the driveway, walking to one of our many "outdoor classroom" areas on the property or a guest may find one and bring it back to the lodge. Occasionally, our friend John Rucker will bring his specially trained 'turtle dogs" to Earthshine to locate turtles by their scent--this is truly an amazing thing to watch so check it out in the short video below!
After we find a turtle we collect location, health and measurement data and then usually release the turtle where it was found and hope to see it again one day. A few special turtles have received micro-radio telemetry transmitters to facilitate the periodic tracking of their movements, habitat use and interactions with other turtles and wildlife on the mountain.
Transmitters will be attached to each turtle's shell by using a glue-on method that will not harm the animal. The attachment method is similar to the artificial fingernails many ladies wear. Once attached, the transmitter will appear as in the above photo of Bones or the below photo of Mojo. Placement will depend on the weight of the turtle, weight of the transmitter and sex of the turtle. Males, such as Bones and Mojo may have their transmitters mounted on the top or back of the shell but females must have their transmitter mounted on the top or side so it will not interfere with mating. Transmitters will stay attached for up to several years until the battery needs to be replaced. They will then be replaced with a fresh unit and tracking will continue.
I will be using two different transmitters--Telenax models TXB 125G and TXB 124GandAVM model SB 2. The receiver is anICOM IC-R10and two different antenna models: a Telonics RA-14 H-type directional and an Arrow, Yagi type 3 element directional antenna. The transmitter (AVM), receiver (ICOM) and Arrow antenna package can be seen in the photo below.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Transmitters will be attached to each turtle's shell by using a glue-on method that will not harm the animal. The attachment method is similar to the artificial fingernails many ladies wear. Once attached, the transmitter will appear as in the above photo of Bones or the below photo of Mojo. Placement will depend on the weight of the turtle, weight of the transmitter and sex of the turtle. Males, such as Bones and Mojo may have their transmitters mounted on the top or back of the shell but females must have their transmitter mounted on the top or side so it will not interfere with mating. Transmitters will stay attached for up to several years until the battery needs to be replaced. They will then be replaced with a fresh unit and tracking will continue.
I will be using two different transmitters--Telenax models TXB 125G and TXB 124GandAVM model SB 2. The receiver is anICOM IC-R10and two different antenna models: a Telonics RA-14 H-type directional and an Arrow, Yagi type 3 element directional antenna. The transmitter (AVM), receiver (ICOM) and Arrow antenna package can be seen in the photo below.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
I will be using two different transmitters--Telenax models TXB 125G and TXB 124GandAVM model SB 2. The receiver is anICOM IC-R10and two different antenna models: a Telonics RA-14 H-type directional and an Arrow, Yagi type 3 element directional antenna. The transmitter (AVM), receiver (ICOM) and Arrow antenna package can be seen in the photo below.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Below is a close up of the receiver and transmitter...yes, that is a quarter next to the transmitter! Each type of transmitter has different expected battery life: AVM approximately 560 days and Telenax 2.7 years!
How it works.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Upon finding a turtle and attaching the transmitter it will then be released at the exact site of capture.
The transmitter sends out a pulse which will be picked up by the hand-held receiver and antenna set. This will be translated into an audible "beep, beep, beep" from the receiver which increases in strength the closer the receiver is to the transmitter. By using the receiver to locate the transmitter, we will be able to locate the turtle.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Turtles will be located up to three times per week. Each time we find the turtle, we will record vital data to help us determine its habitat usage and movement patterns. The data recorded will be: date, time, temperature (at ground level and 5' above ground level), relative humidity, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, weather at the time, weather over the past 24 hours, forecast for the next 24 hours, GPS location (UTM), habitat type, distance traveled from last location, the turtle's behavior and any other animals in the vicinity. During each location day the turtle will usually not be touched or disturbed any more than necessary in order to reduce stress with the exception being that the turtle's weight and general condition will be recorded once per month (except for during the winter months). Photographs and short movies of the turtle and it's habitat will be taken if weather allows.
The general location data will be plotted on a topographic map as a reference. Place names have been removed from the map and the turtle's locations on the map will be approximate for obvious safety reasons. Over time, each turtle's habitat usage will be revealed as well as its home range and possible interactions with other resident turtles and wildlife.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
This study will generate valuable scientific information on Eastern Box Turtle natural movements and habitat usage above 2500 feet in the western North Carolina mountains. This data will be made available to the BTC, NCWRC, NC Zoo and the North Carolina Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program that is working to preserve animals like the Eastern Box Turtle whose numbers are declining across its range.
My hope is that this study will become a great hands-on wildlife study for all Earthshine guests and staff alike that will continue for many years to come.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Eastern Box Turtles currently being tracked.
NOTE: As of 3/1/2009 all transmitters except for Mojo's have been removed and sent back to the company for repair due to a manufacturing defect. The turtles have been transferred to temporary on-site holding pens with substrate from their hibernation sites. Once the new transmitters arrive they will be attached and the turtles will be returned to their hibernation sites and placed in the exact spot where they have spent the winter. Hopefully, the natural movements of the turtles will not be disrupted by this unfortunate circumstance.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
"BONES"
"MOJO"
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
"CATHERINE"
"JIMMY IRWIN"
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
"MEREDITH"
"FRAZIER"
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
"Mrs. BONES"
Sign up for the Earthshine Nature Notes and Turtle Tracks Newsletter and receive regular email updates on all of the nature related events at Earthshine as well as updates on the status of the turtles in the Turtle Tracks research project...as well as turtle and wildlife news and trivia from around the world! Newsletters will be in the form of a periodic email so sign up now!
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Follow our tracks on the Turtle Tracks Blog!
The Turtle Tracks conservation program operates primarily on donations from private supporters. If you are interested helping us fund this wonderful conservation project and would like to become a part of the Turtle Tracks program by donating or adopting (sponsoring) a turtle please click the photolink below.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
NEW Turtle Tracks Fundraiser for 2009. Checking out our new collectors coin pictured below. It is now available in three finishes: bronze (pictured), antique silver and the Limited Edition Copper of which only 25 will be produced! All funds raised from the sale of this coin will help support the Turtle Tracks Conservation Project for 2009! Click the coin below to take a look at the Turtle Tracks fundraiser geocoin page for more info on how you can get yours today--and help the turtles!
Check out "For the Turtles" below. It is a video compilation of the greatest moments of the 2008 Turtle Tracks season!
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Check out "For the Turtles" 2007 below.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Photo by Aaron Weed.
"To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering." - Aldo Leopold
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Read about my previous Eastern box turtle research HERE.
Do you mow your grass or fields on a semi-regular basis? If you do you may be endangering box turtles. Read more about how you can help box turtles on your land HERE.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.
Check out this page if you are you interested in ideas on how you can provide more homes and habitat for box turtles and other wildlife on your land.
NOTE: Please do not attempt to radio-track a turtle or other wild animal on your own. Radio telemetric wildlife study is a very specialized discipline. First and foremost is the safety and correct treatment of the animals being studied and secondly it takes years of study to learn the "how to" of the use of radio telemetry equipment and other data collection equipment.
Please contact us if have a question or an injured or displaced box turtle that is in need of a little R & R or if you are interested in becoming a part of The Earthshine Turtle Tracks program.