Wood Turtle: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification
In this blog post, we will explore fascinating information about the Wood Turtle. Reptiles name themselves, and the Wood Turtle is a unique member of this group. It has a long history that dates back millions of years. These amazing creatures have roamed the Earth for a very long time!
Wood Turtles are known for their interesting features and behaviors. They have a special shell on their back, which protects them from harm. Their shells are not too big, reaching an average size of around 6 to 8 inches. These small but mighty reptiles are also known for their bright orange or yellow coloration on their necks and legs.
When it comes to habitat, Wood Turtles prefer living near streams, ponds, and marshy areas. They like to spend a lot of time swimming in the water, as well as sunbathing on rocks or logs. These clever reptiles also have an excellent sense of direction. They can navigate back to their homes even if they wander off!
As for classification, Wood Turtles belong to the Testudines order, which includes various types of turtles. They fall under the scientific name “Glyptemys insculpta.” This classification helps scientists study and understand these reptiles better. By learning more about Wood Turtles, we can appreciate the incredible diversity of the reptile kingdom.
Remember, our blog already covers a wide range of topics about reptiles. In fact, we have an article that talks about 155+ Reptiles name. Feel free to explore more posts as we delve into the captivating world of reptiles!
History of Wood Turtle
The Wood Turtle is a special reptile that has been around for a very long time. It has a rich history that goes back many years. People have been fascinated by these turtles and have studied them to learn more about their behavior and habitat.
In the past, Wood Turtles could be found in many areas across North America. They could be seen in forests, wetlands, and even near rivers and streams. These turtles are very smart and have a unique ability to remember their surroundings. This helps them find their way back to their homes, even if they are far away.
Unfortunately, over the years, the Wood Turtle population has declined. This is mainly due to humans destroying their natural habitats. People have been cutting down trees and building houses, which has made it difficult for the Wood Turtles to survive. Pollution and climate change have also affected their homes, making it hard for them to find food and clean water.
Today, conservation efforts are being made to protect the Wood Turtle. Many organizations are working to create safe spaces where these turtles can live and thrive. People are learning about the importance of preserving their habitats and taking steps to reduce pollution. By understanding the history and challenges that Wood Turtles have faced, we can work together to ensure that they continue to be a part of our world for many more years to come.
Importance of Wood Turtle
Wood turtles are reptiles that play a vital role in our environment. They are important for several reasons. Firstly, they help in maintaining a balanced ecosystem. Wood turtles feed on small insects, plants, and worms, which helps control their population. By doing so, they contribute to the natural balance of nature.
Secondly, wood turtles are essential for seed dispersal. As they travel from one place to another, they often carry seeds on their bodies or inside their digestive system. When they defecate, these seeds are released into the environment, promoting plant growth and biodiversity.
Lastly, wood turtles have cultural and educational significance. They have been part of indigenous cultures and traditions for generations. Their unique appearance and behavior fascinate people of all ages. Learning about wood turtles helps us understand the importance of preserving their natural habitat and conserving other species as well.
In conclusion, wood turtles are an indispensable part of our ecosystem. By maintaining balance, aiding in seed dispersal, and promoting cultural and educational value, they play a crucial role in our environment. It is our responsibility to protect and preserve these incredible reptiles for future generations to enjoy and learn from.
Amazing Facts About Wood Turtle
1. The wood turtle, also known as the Eastern box turtle, is a reptile that belongs to the genus Glyptemys.
2. These turtles are native to North America and can be found in various parts of the United States and Canada.
3. Wood turtles are named after their distinctive shell, which is made up of bony plates called scutes.
4. They have a brownish or blackish shell with yellow or orange markings on each scute, giving them a unique appearance.
5. Wood turtles are medium-sized turtles, with adults typically reaching lengths of 6-8 inches (15-20 centimeters).
6. These turtles have a lifespan of about 40 to 60 years in the wild, but some individuals have been known to live even longer.
7. Wood turtles are omnivorous, meaning they eat a variety of foods including plants, fruits, insects, worms, and even small fish.
8. They are primarily terrestrial, spending most of their time on land, but they are also excellent swimmers and can be found in freshwater habitats.
9. Wood turtles are known for their ability to hibernate during the winter months. They dig burrows in the ground and become dormant until spring.
10. Breeding season for wood turtles typically occurs in the spring. Females lay their eggs in nests dug in sandy or loose soil.
11. These turtles are slow to reproduce, with females laying only 4-12 eggs per year, and it can take several years for the young turtles to mature and reach reproductive age.
12. Wood turtles are shy and generally prefer to retreat into their shells when they feel threatened. They have a hinged lower shell which allows them to completely close their shell for protection.
13. Due to habitat loss, pollution, and illegal collection for the pet trade, wood turtles are considered a species of concern in many areas.
14. Conservation efforts are being made to protect wood turtle populations, including habitat restoration, captive breeding programs, and education on responsible pet ownership.
15. It is important to remember that wood turtles are wild animals and should be observed from a distance in their natural habitat to avoid disturbing or harming them.
Can we keep Wood Turtle as our Pet?
The Wood Turtle is a beautiful reptile that once lived in forests and wetlands, but sadly it is now facing extinction. Due to habitat loss, pollution, and illegal trading, the numbers of Wood Turtles have decreased significantly over the years. These turtles are now protected by law, and it is illegal to keep them as pets.
Wood Turtles are fascinating creatures, but it is important to understand why we cannot keep them as pets. When a species becomes extinct, it means that there are no more of that animal left on Earth. Extinction can happen for many reasons, but in the case of the Wood Turtle, it is mainly because their homes are being destroyed by humans. These turtles need specific habitats, such as clean water and ample food sources. When we destroy their habitats, they have nowhere to live and cannot survive.
It is our responsibility to protect and preserve the environment for all living beings, including the Wood Turtle. We can help these amazing creatures by not keeping them as pets and by raising awareness about their importance in the ecosystem. By learning about how our actions can negatively impact wildlife, we can make a difference and ensure the survival of these reptiles. Let’s appreciate the beauty of the Wood Turtle from a distance and ensure that future generations can also admire them in their natural habitats.
Size of Wood Turtle
The Wood Turtle is a reptile that can be found in North America. It is a medium-sized turtle, growing up to 6 to 8 inches in length. Its shell, or carapace, is smooth and ranges in color from dark brown to olive. The shell is oval-shaped and has distinct growth rings, much like the rings in a tree trunk. These rings can help scientists determine the turtle’s age.
The Wood Turtle’s head is relatively small, with a pointed snout. It has a distinctive pattern on its face, with bright orange or yellow spots behind its eyes. Its legs are sturdy and, like its shell, are also marked with yellow spots. The front legs have sharp claws and are used for digging and climbing.
Despite its medium size, the Wood Turtle is considered one of the larger turtle species found in North America. Its size and weight can vary depending on factors such as its diet and habitat. Although it may not be as large as some other turtle species, it is still a remarkable creature with unique physical characteristics.
In conclusion, the Wood Turtle is a medium-sized reptile that measures around 6 to 8 inches in length. Its oval-shaped shell, distinct growth rings, and pointed snout make it easily recognizable. With its strong legs and sharp claws, this turtle is well adapted for digging and climbing. Even though it may not be the largest turtle, the Wood Turtle’s size and features make it a fascinating reptile to learn about.
Habitat of Wood Turtle
The wood turtle reptile, also known as Glyptemys insculpta, is a fascinating creature that can be found in certain parts of North America. These turtles prefer to live in places that are near water, such as rivers, streams, and ponds. They enjoy habitats with clean water and lots of plants for them to hide and search for food. Wood turtles are also known to inhabit forests and wetlands, where they can find shelter and protection.
Water is very important for wood turtles, as they need it to drink and regulate their body temperature. They also spend a good amount of time in the water, swimming and foraging for food. Wood turtles are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals. In the water, they mainly feed on insects, small fish, and amphibians. On land, they enjoy munching on a variety of plants, such as berries, mushrooms, and different types of vegetation.
Wood turtles need a suitable environment with both land and water elements to survive. They prefer habitats that are not too crowded or noisy, as they can be easily disturbed. The vegetation in their habitat provides them with shade, protection, and places for them to bask in the sun. Fallen logs or tree stumps are also important for wood turtles, as they often use them as places to hide and hibernate during the winter months.
In summary, wood turtles like to live near clean water, such as rivers and ponds. They enjoy habitats with lots of plants that provide them with food and shelter. They need both land and water elements in their environment to survive and thrive. These amazing reptiles are a vital part of their ecosystems and should be protected and respected.
Evolution of Wood Turtle
The Wood Turtle reptile has undergone a fascinating evolution over millions of years. In the early stages of their evolution, these reptiles looked quite different from what they do today. They had a hard shell to protect their bodies and a long neck to help them reach for food. Their limbs were sturdy and strong, allowing them to move quickly on land and even swim in the water. As time went on, Wood Turtles started to develop more unique features that helped them adapt to their environments even better.
As the years passed, Wood Turtles began to develop a special ability to retract their head and legs into their shell for protection. This gave them an advantage by allowing them to hide from predators and stay safe. Another important adaptation was the development of sharp claws on their feet, which helped them dig into the ground for shelter or find food. These adaptations made them better suited for survival and helped the Wood Turtles thrive in different habitats.
Over time, their bodies also went through changes to better survive in their natural surroundings. Wood Turtles developed a bumpy and rough skin that helped camouflage them among the rocks and woodlands where they lived. They also started to develop beaks that were perfect for feeding on plants, insects, and berries. These changes were driven by the need to adapt and find food sources easily.
In conclusion, the Wood Turtle reptile has evolved significantly over time to adapt and survive in its changing environment. Their sturdy limbs, retractable head, sharp claws, rough skin, and specialized beaks have all contributed to their success. By studying the evolution of these fascinating creatures, we can learn more about the process of adaptation and how different species change over time to better suit their habitats.
Classification of Wood Turtle
The wood turtle is a type of reptile that is found in North America. It belongs to the family called Emydidae and the scientific name for this turtle is Glyptemys insculpta. Wood turtles are medium-sized reptiles that can grow up to 8 inches in length. They have a unique appearance with a highly domed and sculpted shell, which is where their scientific name is derived from.
Wood turtles can be easily recognized by their distinct coloration. They have a dark brown or black shell with bright yellow or orange patterns on their back. Their skin is usually dark brown with yellow stripes on their legs and neck. Additionally, wood turtles have a hinged plastron, which allows them to fully close their shell for protection.
These turtles prefer to live in wooded areas near streams, rivers, or wetlands. They are excellent swimmers and can often be seen basking on logs or rocks in the sun. Wood turtles are omnivorous, meaning they eat a variety of both plants and small animals. Their diet includes fruits, insects, worms, slugs, and amphibians.
In conclusion, the wood turtle is a fascinating reptile that belongs to the Emydidae family. It has a unique appearance with a highly sculpted shell and distinct coloration. These turtles can be found in North America, primarily in wooded areas near water sources. They are skilled swimmers and have a diverse diet. Wood turtles are an important part of the ecosystem and should be protected to ensure their survival in the wild.
Different Types of Wood Turtle
1. Red-eared Slider Turtle: This common turtle has a distinctive red stripe behind each eye, making it easily recognizable. It enjoys swimming and basking in the sun, and can live up to 40 years in captivity.
2. Painted Turtle: It has colorful markings on its shell, which resemble a painted pattern. This turtle is found in North America and prefers to live in freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, and marshes.
3. Box Turtle: With a high, domed shell and hinged lower shell, box turtles can completely close themselves inside. They have a lifespan of up to 100 years and are known for their ability to adapt to various environments.
4. Eastern Box Turtle: Native to eastern and central North America, this turtle has a unique pattern on its shell, which ranges from olive to dark brown. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and grasslands.
5. Bog Turtle: It is one of the smallest turtles in North America, measuring only around 4 inches in length. Found in wetlands and bogs, it is a threatened species due to habitat loss and illegal pet trade.
6. North American Wood Turtle: This turtle has a domed shell and yellowish markings. It is primarily found in wooded areas and streams in northeastern North America. It is highly territorial and prefers to feed on worms, insects, and plants.
7. Spotted Turtle: As its name suggests, this turtle has yellow spots on its black shell. It is native to eastern North America and is mostly found in shallow, freshwater marshes and ponds. It is a protected species due to its declining population.
8. Blanding’s Turtle: With a bright yellow throat and a helmet-shaped shell, this turtle is found in wetlands and shallow water bodies in North America. It is known for its friendly nature and is often kept as a pet.
9. Diamondback Terrapin: This unique turtle has a diamond-shaped pattern on its shell, which gives it its name. It resides in brackish waters along the eastern and southern coastlines of the United States, where rivers meet the ocean.
10. Western Pond Turtle: Also known as the Pacific pond turtle, this species inhabits ponds, wetlands, and slow-moving streams in the western United States. It has a dark olive-colored shell and can be easily distinguished by the red stripes on its head and neck.
Geographical Presence of Wood Turtle
The Wood Turtle reptile can be found in the northeastern parts of North America, particularly in the regions known as the Great Lakes and the Atlantic coast. These areas include places like Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and parts of Canada. The Wood Turtle prefers freshwater habitats, such as rivers, streams, and lakes with slow-moving water. They like to spend their time basking in the sun on the banks of these water bodies and can sometimes be seen crossing roads to get to their desired destination.
However, there are regions where the Wood Turtle cannot be found. They generally do not inhabit areas that are too warm or too dry, such as the southern parts of the United States or the deserts. They also avoid places with fast-moving water, as it can be difficult for them to swim across. Additionally, the Wood Turtle is not typically found in areas with heavy human activity or where there is a significant loss of habitat due to urbanization or agricultural practices.
To ensure the conservation of the Wood Turtle, it is important to protect their preferred habitats and maintain the quality of the water in their ecosystems. This can be done through the preservation of wetlands, reducing pollution, and creating wildlife corridors that connect their habitats. By taking these measures, we can help the Wood Turtle continue to thrive and contribute to the biodiversity of their respective regions.
Scientific Name of Wood Turtle
The scientific name of the wood turtle reptile is Glyptemys insculpta. The wood turtle is a fascinating reptile that has a unique shell pattern with lines and grooves, which scientists refer to as “insculpta.” This name helps to identify and distinguish this particular species from other types of turtles.
Wood turtles are indigenous to North America and can be found in various habitats, such as forests, wetlands, and grasslands. These reptiles have a dark brown shell, and their skin is often a mix of brown, orange, and yellow. They are known for their ability to climb different terrains and their preference for spending time on land rather than in the water.
Wood turtles are omnivores, which means they eat a combination of plant-based and animal-based foods. They enjoy feasting on a variety of plants, including berries, mushrooms, and leaves. Additionally, they also consume insects, worms, and other small creatures they come across while foraging.
In summary, the wood turtle reptile, scientifically known as Glyptemys insculpta, is a unique species found in North America. It has a distinct shell pattern and is well-adapted to terrestrial environments. These fascinating reptiles have an omnivorous diet, feeding on a variety of plants and small animals.
Diet of Wood Turtle
The diet of the Wood Turtle reptile consists mainly of various plants and insects. These creatures have a diverse range of leafy greens and vegetation in their diet. They enjoy eating leaves from plants like berries, lettuce, clovers, and dandelions. Wood Turtles also munch on fruits such as apples, pears, and blueberries, which provide essential nutrients.
Apart from plants, Wood Turtles also hunt for insects and small invertebrates. They love eating worms, slugs, snails, and beetles. These tasty treats are a great source of protein for the Wood Turtle. Sometimes, they may even indulge in the occasional mushroom or mushroom spore. This varied diet helps keep Wood Turtles healthy and ensure they get all the nutrients they need to thrive.
It is important to note that Wood Turtles are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals. However, they tend to consume more plant-based foods than meat. By feasting on a mix of vegetation and insects, the Wood Turtle is able to maintain a balanced diet and live a long and healthy life in their natural habitats.
Locomotion of Wood Turtle
The wood turtle reptile moves in a special way called locomotion. It uses its strong legs to walk on land and swim in water. When it wants to walk, it puts one leg forward and then moves the other leg forward. This helps it to move in a straight path and explore new places. The wood turtle can also swim in the water by moving its legs up and down. This allows it to glide through the water and find food or escape from danger. Overall, the locomotion of the wood turtle reptile is an important skill that helps it to survive and adapt in different environments.
Social and Sexual Behaviour of Wood Turtle
Wood turtles are reptiles that live in the woodlands and wetlands of North America. They have interesting social and sexual behaviors that help them survive and reproduce.
When it comes to social behavior, wood turtles are known to be solitary creatures. They prefer to spend most of their time alone, exploring their surroundings and searching for food. However, during the breeding season, which typically occurs in the spring, male wood turtles become more social. They engage in a behavior called “head bobbing,” where they nod their heads up and down to communicate with females and establish dominance. This head bobbing is a way for males to show their interest and attract a mate.
Sexual behavior in wood turtles is also fascinating. During mating, the male climbs onto the female’s back and holds on tightly. This mating position is called “amplexus”. The male then uses his long claws to grip the female’s carapace, or shell, so that he can fertilize her eggs. Wood turtles are also known to engage in multiple matings, with females often mating with several different males during one breeding season. This diversity in mating helps increase the chances of successful reproduction.
In summary, wood turtles are solitary creatures, but during the breeding season, males become more social and communicate with females through head bobbing. During mating, males hold onto the female’s back in a position called amplexus. Wood turtles are fascinating reptiles with unique social and sexual behaviors that play important roles in their lives.
Reproduction and Lifecycle of Wood Turtle
The wood turtle is a reptile that goes through a fascinating life cycle. Like other turtles, they lay eggs to reproduce. The process begins when a male wood turtle finds a female and swims alongside her. He will then stroke her head. If the female is interested, she will respond by touching his chin. This is how they communicate and show that they are ready to mate.
After mating, the female wood turtle will find a suitable spot to lay her eggs. She digs a hole in the ground using her hind legs. Once the hole is deep enough, she lays the eggs and covers them with soil. The mother turtle then leaves the nest and does not return to care for the eggs.
The eggs are left on their own in the ground and hatch on their own after a couple of months. The temperature of the soil determines the sex of the baby turtles. If it is warmer, the turtles will be female, and if it is cooler, they will be male. Once the baby wood turtles hatch, they dig their way out of the nest and make their way to a nearby water source.
The wood turtle goes through a cycle of reproduction and life that is both interesting and unique. From the mating rituals to the hatching of eggs, each step is crucial for the survival of this reptile species. By understanding their life cycle, we can appreciate the wonders of nature and the importance of conserving these turtles and their habitats.
Threats to Wood Turtle
Wood turtles are reptiles that live in forests and wetlands. Sadly, they face threats that can harm their population. One major threat is habitat loss. As humans expand cities and build roads, the turtles lose the places where they live and find food. This is a big problem because wood turtles need specific habitats with clean water and sandy soil to lay their eggs.
Another threat to wood turtles is pollution. Pollution can come from chemicals that are released into the water, such as oil or pesticides. When turtles swim or live in polluted water, it can make them sick or even kill them. Pollution not only affects the turtles, but also the plants and insects they eat. If there are fewer plants and insects, it becomes harder for wood turtles to find food and survive.
Lastly, wood turtles are also threatened by illegal collection and trade. Some people capture these turtles and sell them on the black market as pets. This practice is dangerous because it reduces the number of turtles in the wild. Wood turtles are slow to reproduce, so it takes a long time for their population to recover if many turtles are taken from their natural habitat.
In order to protect wood turtles, it is important to take action. We can help by preserving their habitats and protecting the areas where they live. We should also educate others about the importance of not polluting the environment. Lastly, we must discourage the illegal collection and trade of wood turtles. By working together, we can ensure the survival of these amazing reptiles for future generations to enjoy.
Population of Wood Turtle
The population of the Wood Turtle reptile is estimated to be around 2,000 to 5,000 individuals. These reptiles can be found in parts of North America, such as the United States and Canada. They prefer living in freshwater habitats, like rivers and streams, where they can find food and shelter. The Wood Turtle plays an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of their habitat by helping to control populations of insects and small invertebrates. Unfortunately, due to habitat loss, pollution, and over-harvesting, their numbers have been declining.
If the Wood Turtle reptile goes extinct, it means that there would be no more of these reptiles left in the world. This would be a great loss for the ecosystem they belong to, as their absence would disrupt the natural food chain. It is important for us to protect and preserve the habitats of endangered species like the Wood Turtle, as they contribute to the biodiversity of our planet. Efforts such as conserving natural habitats, reducing pollution, and raising awareness about the importance of these reptiles can play a crucial role in preventing their extinction.
Conclusion
To sum up, our journey into the world of Wood Turtles has been an eye-opening experience. These gentle creatures have a rich history that dates back millions of years, making them ancient survivors in our ever-changing world. Despite their small size, Wood Turtles have captured our hearts with their unique characteristics and fascinating behaviors.
Wood Turtles, like other reptiles, have a remarkable ability to adapt to various environments. They can be found in woodlands and wetlands, where they enjoy a diverse diet consisting of plants, insects, and even small vertebrates. These resilient creatures have managed to survive through the ages, thanks to their hard shells, which provide protection against predators and harsh conditions.
While we bid farewell to the world of Wood Turtles, we are reminded of the importance of preserving their natural habitats. As responsible stewards of the earth, it is crucial for us to maintain a healthy balance in nature, not only for the survival of Wood Turtles but also for the countless other species that rely on these ecosystems. By understanding and appreciating the wonders of reptiles like the Wood Turtle, we can continue to work towards a future where all creatures thrive in harmony.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wood Turtle (FAQ’s)
Q: What is a wood turtle reptile?
A: A wood turtle reptile, also known as common or Eastern box turtle, is a small to medium-sized terrestrial turtle species found in eastern and central North America.
Q: What is the average size of a wood turtle reptile?
A: Wood turtles typically measure between 4.5 to 8 inches in length when fully grown.
Q: What is the lifespan of a wood turtle reptile?
A: Wood turtles can live up to 50 years in captivity, but the average lifespan in the wild is estimated to be around 30 years.
Q: How can I identify a wood turtle reptile?
A: Wood turtles have a distinct hinged plastron (lower shell) that allows them to fully close their shell. They also have a high-domed carapace (upper shell) with yellow and black blotches.
Q: What do wood turtles eat?
A: Wood turtles are omnivorous, feeding on a diet that includes insects, worms, snails, berries, mushrooms, and various plant matter.
Q: Are wood turtles endangered?
A: Yes, wood turtles are classified as a threatened species in many states and are listed as endangered in some states due to habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, and illegal collection for the pet trade.
Q: Do wood turtles require a specific type of habitat?
A: Yes, wood turtles prefer moist forested areas near streams and rivers, with some open areas for basking. They require access to water for drinking and bathing.
Q: Can wood turtles be kept as pets?
A: Wood turtles can be kept as pets, but it is important to ensure they are captive-bred and legal to possess in your area. They require specialized care and a spacious enclosure.
Q: What are the legal regulations regarding wood turtle ownership?
A: The legal regulations regarding wood turtle ownership vary depending on the location and species. It is essential to consult local authorities or a reputable herpetologist before obtaining one as a pet.
Q: How do wood turtles reproduce?
A: Wood turtles reproduce through sexual reproduction, with females laying small clutches of eggs in sandy soil. The eggs hatch after an incubation period of about three months.
Q: Are wood turtles social creatures?
A: Wood turtles are generally solitary creatures. However, they may interact and show social behaviors, especially during the mating season.
Q: How do wood turtles defend themselves from predators?
A: Wood turtles have the ability to close their shell completely, providing them protection against predators. They may also release a musky odor to deter predators.
Q: Can wood turtles swim?
A: Yes, wood turtles are good swimmers and are often found in or near bodies of water.
Q: What are the threats to wood turtle populations?
A: The main threats to wood turtle populations include habitat loss, road mortality, pollution, collection for the pet trade, and predation by raccoons, foxes, and other animals.
Q: How can I help conserve wood turtle populations?
A: You can help conserve wood turtle populations by supporting habitat conservation efforts, reporting illegal collection or trade, and participating in turtle rescue and rehabilitation programs.
Hey there, I’m Tyler Swan! I worked as an Animal Care Specialist at Neuralink and completed my education at the University of California, Davis. Animals have always fascinated me, so I chose to study and work with them.
In my job, I take care of animals and make sure they’re healthy and happy. I’ve had cool roles like Lab Manager and Senior Research Assistant at Mitloehner Lab, where I’ve learned much about animals.
I’m not just about work, though. I love animals so much that I write articles about them! I enjoy sharing fun and interesting facts about our furry and feathered friends.
If you ever want to know more about animals or need help with animal info, ask! I’m here to make learning about animals easy and fun, just like chatting with friends.
