WILTON — The snapping turtle was first seen just after 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday by my friend, Johanna.

She spotted him in the middle of the drive about 10 feet from her car. She called for me. I grabbed my camera and we started observing him. As I took photos he was frozen and cautious. A few head turns and figuring we were only mildly threatening he casually headed off the driveway onto the lawn and under a bush where we left him.

Knowing my neighbors would be interested. I went to tell them about my visitor. By the time my neighbor, Jay Varuolo, and I returned, we had to search the yard before finding him on the move and 3/4 down the drive toward the lake. He responded to our talking to him and stopped.

Jay realized that the foot of Wilson Lake was not a good destination as there are kids, dogs, walkers and families in that area, a boat landing and fishing activities are nearby. As Jay went home for supplies to move our guest I stood guard. The turtle and I just stared at one another.

The turtle was young, about 20″ long with head and tail extended. With sharp treacherous claws and snake-like quick attack abilities snapping turtles are dangerous.

One never knows what wild life you’ll see in Maine. Whether in or out of its habitat it can be quite a surprise. When we feel no danger it provides a delightful diversion in our day. After viewing him closely, a few wrinkles shouldn’t bother us folks. Wow, what old looking skin and scary long toe nails for a youngster!

Jay urged the turtle into a box with a nudge of a baseball back. The turtle’s walk was a good strong waddle until he was threatened by the box. Then, he was quite quick.

Once delivered to the marsh he dove down and swam away, none the worse for his adventure.

Submitted by Peggy Hodgkins