It was possibly around ten years ago or more, probably on this very day, that my newspaper ran this story concerning the delicate subject of mating tortoises in our Black Country parks. Readers were warned to be on their guard as the regular spring ritual got under it's slow and laborious way. This prolonged and unsettled winter has meant that once again, vigilance and care are the watchwords...
For the long cold period and often harsh snowy conditions have taken their toll on our shelled friends, and if numbers are to be maintained, or indeed increased, then we need to be extra careful as nature takes it's course over the next few weeks.
In the main, tortoise experts are simply asking that as mating couples make their way to the tops of the trees in our parks and gardens, in order to do what nature requires, we give them time and space and do our best to reduce any stress that might hamper their progress.
Keep a watchful eye on family pets, because the first ten feet is the most dangerous and difficult part of the tree climb for any tortoise. Once clear of a yapping Fido, they can take their time, and choose whichever branch takes their fancy for the week long ritual.
Despite reports in some journals, tortoises don't build nests, but manage perfectly well in the crook of a new branch, with as many as a dozen couples sharing the same tree.
And apparently, you shouldn't be kept awake at night, as the whole thing goes off with hardly a murmur. Wish it was like that in our street...
For the long cold period and often harsh snowy conditions have taken their toll on our shelled friends, and if numbers are to be maintained, or indeed increased, then we need to be extra careful as nature takes it's course over the next few weeks.
In the main, tortoise experts are simply asking that as mating couples make their way to the tops of the trees in our parks and gardens, in order to do what nature requires, we give them time and space and do our best to reduce any stress that might hamper their progress.
Keep a watchful eye on family pets, because the first ten feet is the most dangerous and difficult part of the tree climb for any tortoise. Once clear of a yapping Fido, they can take their time, and choose whichever branch takes their fancy for the week long ritual.
Despite reports in some journals, tortoises don't build nests, but manage perfectly well in the crook of a new branch, with as many as a dozen couples sharing the same tree.
And apparently, you shouldn't be kept awake at night, as the whole thing goes off with hardly a murmur. Wish it was like that in our street...
Phil
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