Soft Shell Oil
by Deborah Benoit
Title
Soft Shell Oil
Artist
Deborah Benoit
Medium
Photograph - Original Photography By Deborah Benoit
Description
I have to say that I love nature. I am sure that many of you can tell. This Soft Shell turtle was basking in the sun on the bank of this pond I go to in Port Orange, Florida.
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Florida softshell turtles are almost entirely aquatic, generally only emerging from the water to bask or to lay their eggs. They prefer still waters and can be found in ponds, streams, rivers, lakes, and swamps. These turtles are usually shy around humans, but when they feel threatened they will bite with their strong jaws. Like all soft-shells they are very fast in water and on land. In captivity, they have been known to live up to 30 years old, although in the wild their lifespans are shorter.
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The Florida softshell is highly carnivorous, consuming fish, frogs and other amphibians, insects, duck hatchlings, and crustaceans.
Uploaded
June 29th, 2013
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Comments (80)
Renee Barnes
Look at that snapper! I hope you didn't have to get too close to get this image. It is beautifully exposed and captured. Great Job!
Kathy Gibbons
how have i missed this ? This is fantastic ! Great Shot ! I lOve these turtles ,they have such Character and you captured his beautifully Deb !!!!!!!!! : )
Jo Ann Tomaselli
Perfect moment to capture this guy ~ makes me ask what he's got his eye on! v/f
Deborah Benoit replied:
Not sure what it was watching. I think it was just basking in the sun. Thanks Jo Ann!