Colebrook land conservancy hosts program on turtles

COLEBROOK — The Colebrook Land Conservancy’s 16th Annual Potluck Supper will feature a visit from Magnificent Martha and her keeper, noted turtle expert John Foley, on Saturday, April 14 at 5 p.m.

Martha is a 15-year-old, 30-pound Leopard Tortoise whose family hails from the savannas of eastern and southern Africa, from Sudan to the southern Cape. Foley is scheduled to given an after-dinner presentation on turtle myths and lore.

Guests are asked to bring a favorite dish or dessert to share. The event will be held at the Colebrook Senior and Community Center.

At the age of 8, Foley opened a box containing a pet turtle, a special gift from his mother. That became a defining moment in his life, ultimately shaping his career as a professional naturalist with an enduring interest and special expertise in turtles and tortoises. Foley’s illustrated after dinner presentation will include a slide show will cover the habitats and daily travels of a modern-day turtle, how to identify local species, and what to do when you see one of them crossing a highway. Turtle photo-takers will learn tips on how to prevent poachers from finding the turtles they photograph.

“Habitat loss is putting the Northeast turtle and tortoise population at great risk,” noted Linda Raciborski, president of the Colebrook Land Conservancy, in a written statement. “By highlighting turtles at this year’s annual potluck supper event, we hope to underscore the need to be especially diligent stewards of our open spaces and wilderness and strong supporters of land use regulations that protect wildlife habitat.”

Directions: From Route 183, turn onto School House Road and take first right into parking lot behind Town Hall. Follow signage. For more information on the Colebrook Land Conservancy, visit www.colebrooklandconservancy.org

For information, contact Tom Redington, CLC Trustee, at 203-216-2180, or email tredingon@redingtoninc.com

The Colebrook Land Conservancy, a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization, is dedicated to the preservation of Colebrook’s natural resources. It owns 657 acres and holds voluntary conservation easements limiting development on 572 acres.

Contributed photo/Colebrook Land Conservancy / Magnificent Martha is a 15-year-old, 30-pound Leopard Tortoise whose family hails from the savannas of eastern and southern Africa, from Sudan to the southern Cape. Martha is making a journey to Colebrook on Saturday with her keeper, noted turtle...