I work as a turtle biologist, and these are Southern California's only native fresh water turtle- the southwestern pond turtle. This pregnant female was fitted with a transmitter, and I've been following her around all spring at all odd hours of the day/night to find her nests. The more data we have, the better we will understand how at risk they are for extinction. This female gave me a smug little grin before sliding off into the water and waiting for me to chase her around all season.