2003--The Year of the Reptile
Occasionally wildlife rehabilitators receive calls regarding injured reptiles, especially turtles that have been hit by cars. In 2003, Wilderness Haven definitely had its share of herps. We would like to share some of our patients.
This is Violet, a wild painted turtle. She was admitted with a badly cracked shell (white area on front left and a fractured left clavicle. The white material is bone cement used by the vet to repair the crack.
This is a Chinese Water Dragon. Although not wildlife, he was admitted to Wilderness Haven in dire need of help. Due to neglect and mistreatment by his previous owner, he had a badly fractured left rear leg, was blind in one eye, and had a serious head injury that made it difficult for him to eat live food.
This is a wild wood turtle admitted after having her right front foot bitten off, probably by a raccoon. The wound was full of maggots, but after careful cleaning and care, the wound is healing well. She is slated for Spring release. This is a protected species in New York State
Eastern Box Turtle. This fellow was found taking a stroll down the middle of a major expressway. This also is an endangered species in New York State.
This is another local painted turtle, also with a cracked shell. Note the repair at the center rear of the shell. Since the crack is well sealed, the turtle is able to spend a normal amount of time in water.
This is a DeKay's, or Northern Brown Snake. It was found on a patio on a cold morning in early November. After "wintering over", it will be released in early Spring.