Today's wildlife focus: The Diamondback Terrapin

Today's wildlife focus is the Diamondback Terrapin, which is a turtle living in salt marshes, lagoons, etc. In cold, sunny weather, sometimes you can see them sunbathing with the 'gators on the banks of HHI Prep. School. They prefer little creeks and lagoons to an open bay, as it gives them more shelter;But some have even been found swimming in the Atlantic Ocean!The Diamondback Terrapin is the most commonly spotted turtle on Hilton Head, which is sort of obvious. ;)' They are about as big as a shoebox. They eat Fiddler Crabs, Periwinkle Snails, little fish, and even grass! They can eat almost anything, which could be a hazard to their health. You don't know what finds its way into our back lagoons. Speaking of hazards, these little turtles lay their eggs in early summer, and most of the time they cross the road to get to the spot they think is perfect. I have seen several turtles squashed by cars, and they are not a pretty sight. Poor little things. :(