growing, growing, soon to be gone . . .

While all six of the Red-bellied cooters from the NMLC class of 2009 were successfully released, a batch of six animals were referred to our center for additional care and growth.  All of which they are doing admirably, and perhaps too well.  Their growth has been rapid and the growth line (suture) between the scales (scutes) on their shell (carapace) are separating.  We are keeping the area clean with individual tooth-brushes and a topical cream.  Half the cooters are of sufficent size, and we hope to have the whole bale out in the wild soon.