Snapping Turtle walk is scheduled June 9 at Boscobel

Garrison —In 2006, the snapping turtle was designated as New York State’s official reptile. About 1200 of these reptiles live in National Audubon Society’s Constitution Marsh, located just below Boscobel. Each June, female turtles climb up the steep hill to Boscobel’s lush lawn to lay their eggs. The turtles use the claws on their hind feet to scoop out nests in which they deposit some 20 to 60 eggs, the size and color of ping pong balls. On Saturday, June 9, at 7 a.m., Boscobel will have its “Thirteenth Annual Snapping Turtle Walk.” Members of the Constitution Marsh staff will be on hand to discuss the habits and history of these interesting living fossils and to introduce live specimens to the audience. Snapping turtles have long lives, sometimes living to be one hundred years old. They weigh up to forty pounds and are twelve to fourteen inches long. After the informative discussion, visitors may walk Boscobel’s grounds in search of nesting females. The event will take place rain or shine. Coffee, juice and doughnuts will be served starting at 7 a.m., and the program will begin promptly at 7:30 a.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $7 for children ages 6 to 14. Children under six are admitted free. Call 845-265-3638, Extension 115, for reservations and/or information, or visit Boscobel’s website at www.boscobel.org.