Surprise, surprise, surprise.

I've seen lots of wildlife even though I've lived in the heart of a large city most of my life. Since New Orleans is below sea level, and completely surrounded by water as well as chock full of canals and large drainage ditches, I have seen snakes and frogs and turtles and fish and even the occasional alligator in strange places. But I was actually quite shocked to see the large turtle walking down the middle of my street this morning.

We do not live near any water supply from which s/he could have crawled. I suppose s/he could have been living in someone's yard although I would be very surprised as the neighborhood in which I stay is rife with savagery, neglect and abandonment. So few people here would actually care for a pet such as this. If it's not a big mean dog, hardly any "neighbor" would have the time or interest. The turtle's shell shows that it has recently lead a difficult life. Maybe it was caught for dinner.

~K~ was tickled pink as I quickly handed it to her in the backseat of the car, "It's just like the turtle I've never had." She then asked if she could name it for the day as we are all aware that we cannot keep it. She calls it "Speedy."

I spent the greater part of the morning on the phone trying to find an appropriate new home for the poor thing. I finally spoke with a representative of the state wildlife department who recommended that I just drop it off in one of the lagoons in the park. I'm not thrilled with the idea but I do know of a place with a few other similar looking turtles that might just make a good, fairly safe, home where we can occasionally visit.

I'm aware that there may be better alternatives - no lectures please. However, time is of the essence as I have two pets, with teeth and claws, who are exihibiting more interest in the turtle than I care to see. And the turtle bites too.

S/he's in the tub now and seems to be enjoying a swim. I'm glad its last night in captivity is a peaceful one. We've had enough surprises for one day.