Females climb from Constitution Marsh to lay eggs
Did you know the snapping turtle is New York State’s official reptile? About 1,200 of them live in the Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary, located just below Boscobel House and Gardens. And every June, female turtles climb up the steep hill to Boscobel’s lush lawns to lay their eggs, using the claws on their hind feet to scoop out a nest where they will deposit 20 to 60 eggs, the size and color of ping-pong balls.
On Saturday, June 13, at 7:30 a.m., Boscobel will host its 21st annual Snapping Turtle Walk. Members of the Constitution Marsh staff will be on hand to discuss the habits and history of these living fossils and to introduce live specimens to the audience. Snapping turtles can live to be 100 years old, weigh up to 40 pounds and are 12 to 14 inches long.
After the discussion, guests are invited to walk Boscobel’s grounds to seek and possibly observe nesting female turtles. Complimentary coffee and donuts will be available at 7:30 a.m. Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for children ages 6 to 12 and children under 6 are admitted free. Friends of Boscobel members receive a 10 percent discount. Purchase tickets online at Boscobel.org or at the door. This is a rain or shine event.
Boscobel is located on Route 9D in Garrison just one mile south of Cold Spring. For more information, visit Boscobel.org or call 845-265-3638
