Midland painted turtle hatchling (Chrysemys picta marginata)

Typically painted turtles will hatch at the end of summer like other turtles, but instead of emerging from the nest will remain there all winter, safe and snug. In spring the following year, they will finally emerge and head to the wetlands.
The nests are also really well hidden! This small painted turtle nest was disturbed while doing some work around a tree in the rose garden. Once the babies have warmed up in the sun they won't go back to sleep underground and become quite active and alert. After ensuring no other turtles were at risk from human activity in the garden, the hatchlings were safely released into the wetland.