Chadakoin River in downtown Jamestown, New York
This is the Chadakoin River in downtown Jamestown, New York. On one hand it is a waterway that has been surrounded by industry and development for decades. On the other hand it is a vital environmental hotspot, hosting species like the Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera), state-listed as a species of “special concern”. This is a very literal example of this dichotomy. With all of that said there are many reasons to be optimistic about the Chadakoin and other natural resources in the Chautauqua-Allegheny region! Later today I will post a blog entry about RTPI’s...
Read MoreTurtle time before autumn cold
Intensive surveys and research are underway this fall with SUNY JCC interns on the Spiny Softshell Turtles in and around Jamestown. Yesterday our crew stepped into their world, literally, and got wet in the Chadakoin River. It is time to get busy before we get any further into autumn! The first real blast of cold air will arrive this weekend. It’s now or never for field research…
Read MoreEastern Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera)
The past few sunny days have been enjoyable for humans and turtles alike! This adult female Spiny Softshell Turtle (Apalone spinifera) was in the process of hauling herself out of the water to soak up some rays when RTPI staff and JCC interns spotted her and a few others doing the same along the Chadakoin River. Observational work will continue until the turtles go into hibernation later this fall, and we encourage all of you that may be out seeing or observing them to let us know what you are finding. We love to hear where else they are being found and this information is helpful in...
Read MoreBiological Regionalism – Spiny Softshell Turtles
RTPI President Twan Leenders will lead a nature walk introducing participants to the Spiny Softshell Turtles inhabiting the Chadakoin River on September 15 from 5:00 – 6:00 PM. Meet in the parking lot of the Gateway Center, 31 Water Street, Jamestown, NY. Presented in partnership with Jamestown Community College to highlight Alberto Rey’s exhibit “Biological Regionalism”, which will be featured at Jamestown Community College’s Weeks Gallery August 25 – October 3, 2014. This is a free event open to the public and we hope to see you there! Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach...
Read MoreSpiny Softshell Turtle young
At this time last year we were fortunate to be able to record some Spiny Softshell Turtles (Apalone spinifera) like these hatching despite the fact many nearby nests and eggs had been devoured by predators – raccoons and skunks primarily. Thus far this September we have yet to see any hatching or sign of additional breeding whatsoever after some nesting occurred earlier this year. We’ll be watching!
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