Conventionally we see them old and wise, laconically dominating their environment with the confidence born of their longevity. Or we see them as mortal tortletts, freshly hatched and scrambling for safety from ambush predators.
Rarely do we get to see them from this more human angle. Safe from harm and free to enjoy its environment, it is nearly possible to anthropomorphise a smile from the beak of this young reptile. Bright eyes shine with enthusiastic curiosity as it explores its sanctuary. It is one of the lucky few who will never worry about sating the hunger of others or about being caught in recklessly placed fishing nets.
It will certainly outlive me and - I hope - live long into the lives of the next generation.
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