Snapping Turtle (Baby edition)

Snapping Turtle Hatchling, Charles River Peninsula, Needham, MA

This isn't the first tiny snapping turtle I've seen sunning itself on the trail at the CRP.

Snapping Turtle, Charles River Peninsula, Needham, MA

But it was the most active one I've seen. Eyes wide open.

Snapping Turtle, Charles River Peninsula, Needham, MA

And I've seen its giant mother laying eggs on the other side of the field.

Snapping Turtle, Charles River Peninsula, Needham, MA

I was a little concerned for the safety of this one right in the middle of a regularly traveled path so I moved it off path, closer to the river bank.

Also on the concern list: this orchard oriole.

Orchard Oriole, Charles River Peninsula, Needham, MA

It really should be moving on.