Yesterday morning I caught movement out of the corner of my eye while photographing birds in my friend Steve’s yard. Turns out it was a Red-eared Slider turtle.
Close up Red-eared Slider in grass – Canon R7, f11, 1/1000, ISO 1200, -0.7 EV, Canon RF 800 mm, natural light
I quickly told Steve to bring his camera outside and we walked over to photograph the Red-eared Slider together. We were both amazed and intrigued by the turtle being in his yard since there aren’t any water bodies real close by. I thought this might be a female on her way to lay eggs somewhere but I could definitely be wrong about that.
Red-eared Slider moving through grasses – Canon R7, f11, 1/1000, ISO 2000, -0.7 EV, Canon RF 800 mm, natural light
The Red-eared Slider looked wonderful in the morning light as it moved through the still dew-laden grasses.
You can easily see the red marking that gave this turtle species its name. Red-eared Sliders are native to Arkansas, unlike the one I photographed in Utah where they have been introduced. Sadly, they are one of the most popular turtle species that are kept as pets and are often illegally removed from the wild.
Red-eared Slider turtle close up in Arkansas – Canon R7, f11, 1/1000, ISO 1250, -0.7 EV, Canon RF 800 mm, natural light
Yes, I was doing my happy dance as I photographed this Red-eared Slider even though it doesn’t have feathers or wings. I love the magic of nature and seeing this turtle in Steve’s yard was akin to being magical. I know it brightened up my morning and left me grinning for most of yesterday afternoon. Magic is out there, you just need to keep your eyes open to see it. I keep my eyes open all the time.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see my Red-eared Slider Turtle photo gallery.
Wonderful shots! I hope your little friend finds her way home safely. Thanks Mia.
So nice to see a Red-Eared Slider in its (relatively) natural habitat. That must have been a heckuva surprise for both you and Steve.
Great action shots! Stunning image for possible holiday card as well.
I couldn’t agree more with your post! It was an incredible surprise to spot that Red-eared Slider in my yard. The morning light really showcased its beauty as it gracefully moved through the grass. I was equally intrigued by its presence, considering we don’t have any nearby water bodies.
I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to photograph this turtle. Nature truly has a way of brightening our days and reminding us of the wonders around us.
What a magical thing to see. I would think worse of you if you hadn’t done a happy dance – while smiling from ear to ear.