no photo — written note
Animals
The classic basking turtle: smooth dark shell, red bars along the edge, yellow head stripes. Often stacked several deep on a log.
Field facts
HabitatPonds, marshes, slow rivers
RangeStatewide
When to lookMarch to November
StatusLeast Concern (Indiana DNR / IUCN Red List)
Look-alikesRed-eared Slider — red ear patch
Field note: Hatchlings can overwinter in the nest, frozen solid, and emerge in spring.
Lesson
Watching responsibly
Watch basking logs through binoculars; approaching sends the whole row into the water.
Your records
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