Meet Squirtle and Koopa: Tiny New Residents at the Wildlife Center

Big news often comes in very small packages, and our latest arrival at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens is no exception. We are absolutely thrilled to introduce the newest members of our family: Squirtle and Koopa. These two baby red-eared sliders have officially hatched right here in the heart of the Lowcountry. While they might be tiny enough to sit on a fingertip today, they are already making a massive splash with our staff behind the scenes.

While it is impossible to deny how adorable these hatchlings are, their presence at Magnolia comes with an important lesson about the South Carolina environment. Red-eared sliders are actually considered an invasive species. Because they are hardy and aggressive foragers, they frequently outcompete the native turtle species found around Charleston for vital resources like food and prime basking spots. To ensure we are protecting the delicate balance of our local ecosystem and the biodiversity of our historic grounds, Squirtle and Koopa will remain in our care rather than being released into our ponds.

Currently, the duo is spending their days in a specialized nursery area where they can grow and thrive under the watchful eyes of our animal care experts. Once they have reached a safe size and are fully matured, they will transition to a permanent home at the Wildlife Center. Here, they will join their fellow turtle friends and serve as educational ambassadors, helping us teach locals and tourists alike about the importance of native conservation and the impact of invasive species on the Charleston landscape.

At Magnolia, we are committed to providing a safe, happy life for all our resident animals while preserving the natural beauty of the South. We invite you to come experience the magic of the Lowcountry for yourself. Be sure to visit the Wildlife Center during your next visit to Magnolia to see our conservation efforts in action and say hello to our resident reptiles!