In Wissahickon Valley Park, you can find the eastern box turtle. These turtles thrive in forests and love areas with wet leaves and moist soil.
Turtles represent longevity, wisdom, knowledge, protection, and tranquility. Spotting a turtle is said to be a good omen and is associated with good luck and abundance.
On average, the eastern box turtle grows to be about five to six inches long and its shell has ridges that develop with age. Some live to be more than 100 years old!
During hot and dry weather, box turtles will seek out springs or small holes to dig deep and retreat into the cool, refreshing mud. Most of their time is spent buried in leaves, emerging only to eat, particularly during or after rainstorms ⛈️
Just like humans, these turtles are omnivores and eat both plants and animals such as fruits, flowers, mushrooms, snails, beetles, and worms. Have you ever spotted one?
Such a majestic little creature. (McDonald Wildlife Photography Inc./Getty Images)
