26 Baby Turtles Released Into East Islip Lake

EAST ISLIP, NY - Islip officials released a total of 26 baby snapping turtles into Knapp Lake at Brookwood Hall in East Islip on Tuesday.

The turtles were released by Islip DEC Commissioner Martin Bellew and Animal Shelter Supervisor Teri Giacalone.

The turtles were among the 46 that hatched Tuesday morning after incubating in a hole dug by their mother next to the Islip Animal Shelter in Bay Shore.

The eggs were laid on June 8. The remaining 20 turtles were released at another Town of Islip location.

"Turtles are an essential part of our ecosystem, however, as a precaution we are reminding residents not to touch them. Snapping turtles have earned their name, and they will likely bite if handled incorrectly," Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter said. “We encourage residents to enjoy them from a distance."

Photos courtesy of the Town of Islip