About 24walderturtleproject

My name is Maddy, a first year with the Wildlife Epi Lab this year! I am interested in Zoo and Wildlife, mainly of the aquatic variety. I will be rotating around the Chicagoland area sampling turtles under the Walder Turtle Project! Stay tuned for my fun and adventure packed blog for 2024 summer!

Worst Turtle of the Week 5/26-6/1

This especially nippy snapper from DuPage County tugged himself into the newest "Worst Turtle of the Week" position. After his workup, he not only did not want to give us our rope back, but also snapped at any blue glove in sight. He was also recaptured the following day, and I personally wrestled him for [...]

Worst Turtle of the Week 5/26-6/12024-07-15T08:43:37-05:00

Best Turtle of the Week 5/26-6/1

This baby danger nugget (Common Snapping Turtle) from DuPage County was awarded the "Best Turtle of the Week" position. So cute, so pudgy, so polite, and not yet figured out that it is a snapper that should bite. He weighed in at about 65 grams, which is officially my tiniest patient so far.

Best Turtle of the Week 5/26-6/12024-07-15T08:23:39-05:00

Worst Turtle of the Week 5/19-5/25

This stubborn Blanding's boy from DuPage County swiped the position of 'Worst Turtle of the Week' by completely being uncooperative during blood draws, swabbing, and his physical exam. His long nails destroyed more than four pairs of glove. My palm will not forgive him for the abuse.

Worst Turtle of the Week 5/19-5/252024-07-15T08:22:59-05:00

Best Turtle of the Week 5/19-5/25

I present this adorable Blanding's juvenile from DuPage County as the 'Best Turtle of the Week.' They were fantastic for their workup and cheesed for our shellfie. 10/10 would examine again <3

Best Turtle of the Week 5/19-5/252024-07-15T08:22:10-05:00

STEM Award #2 – 5/16 Trapper Purse

(Engineer & Model: Javelis from Lake County) How does one carry multiple traps into a marsh without it dragging and getting caught in the brush? Enter Javelis from Lake County to offer wisdom and guidance. She strung several small traps together via a colorful and durable rope strap that formed the Trapper Purse. And let [...]

STEM Award #2 – 5/16 Trapper Purse2024-05-29T20:02:35-05:00

STEM Award #1 – 5/11 Chip Clip Camera

(Engineer: Carly from Kane County, Model: Yours Truly) How does one plan to record good times and educational videos of WEL summer adventures? Ponder no longer, we have a solution for you! This glorious idea sprang to life with a single sports recording device but nothing to mount/attach it to. Enter Carly from Kane County [...]

STEM Award #1 – 5/11 Chip Clip Camera2024-05-29T20:01:56-05:00

Best Turtle of the Week 5/12 – 5/18

This very cute and lovable Map turtle from Cook County swam its way into the 'Best Turtle of the Week' position! It enjoys holding hands and long swims in the water.      

Best Turtle of the Week 5/12 – 5/182024-05-29T20:05:03-05:00
Go to Top