Spring Sightings: Turtles Return at Isle a la Cache

Hi nature lovers!  

Happy spring! When I talk with preserve visitors or students on field trips, everyone mentions their favorite things about spring: birds migrating, budding trees, wildflowers showcasing their colors, summer right around the corner. While all those things are beautiful and exciting, the thing I look forward to the most is the return of the turtles.  

Painted turtles. (Photo by Chad Merda)

That’s a little misleading because the turtles never went far. Over winter, turtles do something called brumation. This is where they go into "rock mode." They slow down (even more than usual) and stay at the bottom of the river until the cold winter weather is gone.  

In the spring, the weather warms, and the sun becomes stronger, perfect for those cold-blooded creatures who need to sunbathe to stay warm.  

How many turtles can you see in the lagoon? Look closely. (Photo by Jenna Krukowski)

In my opinion, one of the best spots to see turtles is the lagoon at Isle a la Cache. The grasses and plants growing along the edge make the perfect spot for turtles to stay camouflaged while catching some rays. On the last warm day, I counted 15 in the lagoon. How many can you see in this picture? Look closely! 

Make sure to walk slowly and quietly when observing turtles. If you hear a plop, you most likely just heard a turtle fall back into the water.  

When looking for turtles, it’s great to have a good pair of binoculars and a lot of patience because from far away, the turtle species we have here look like shiny dark rocks on a log. Below are just a few of the ones you might see:  

• Common snapping turtle: These are the biggest and most ferocious turtles you will see!  

• Painted turtle: They are called painted turtles because it looks like someone took a few paintbrushes and just drew lines down their necks and heads. Fun fact: These are the state reptile of Illinois! 

• Red-eared slider: Most people mix up the red-eared slider and the painted turtle. The key difference is the patch of red, or the red "ear," on this turtle.  

• Map turtle: I’ve seen northern map turtles and false map turtles at the Isle. One way I identify them is by their yellow "lips." (Technically, turtles have beaks not lips). 

Did you know that you can find these Will County shell-ebrities in lagoons, rivers, ponds and trekking on land? During May and June, female turtles venture out to find the perfect spot to lay their eggs. Sometimes, that perfect nesting spot in across a busy road. This means we have to be extra vigilant as we drive down roads or walk through preserves. If you see a turtle and want to help it cross the road, first make sure it is safe for you to do so. If you can move it, place it in the direction it was already traveling.    

My goal for this season is to catch a glimpse of a Blanding’s turtle. If you haven’t heard of this species, that’s OK. I hadn’t either for a long time. They are an endangered species here in Illinois, so they are even more difficult to spot. As adults, they are about the size of a painted turtle (about 8 inches or so), but the thing that stands out is their bright yellow necks.  Have you seen one? Snap a pic and let us know! 

The resident Blanding's turtles at Isle a la Cache Museum. (Photo by Jenna Krukowski)

For some easy turtle spotting, head inside at Isle a la Cache and say hello to our resident Blanding’s turtles: H3, Jackie, Taco and Shirlee. 

Whether it’s inside or outside, it’s always a good day when you see a turtle! 

Naturally,  

Jenna Krukowski

Interpretive naturalist, Forest Preserve District of Will County

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