Dexter, MO - The Keller Library Summer Reading Program kicked off on Wednesday, June 16, 2021 at the Park Lane Gym with a Tails and Tales theme.  Dee Loflin talked about turtles and brought Missouri animal furs.

Loflin had three box turtles from Missouri and a Sulcata Tortoise that is indigenous to Africa. 

"Myrtle the Turtle has been in our family 4 generations," commented Loflin.  "She currently lives with my daughter, Jessica Georger, but has lived with my grandmother and my father.  She is estimated to be about 80 years old and is considered the oldest turtle of this species in Missouri."

"Elvis is probably around 50-60 years and is totally blind," continued Loflin.  "He was found on the road covered in dried mud. We took him to the Dr. Ward in Advance and that's when we discovered he was totally blind."

"Danni has been with us for several years," stated Loflin. "She loves to be petted."

Chomper is a favorite among the children.  He is a Sulcata Tortoise and is only five years old weighing about 30 lbs.  He will live to be over 200 years old and may end up weighing more than 250 lbs.  

In addition to the turtles Loflin also displayed several animal pelts which included deer, buffalo, a red fox, racoon, skunk and a coyote. Loflin also displayed deer antlers, turkey legs, a buffalo vertebrae and a donkey skull for the children to examine.

"It's always a joy to see the kids touch and feel the furs and skulls," continued Loflin.  "Many never get the opportunity to see these animals in the wild, but to feel their fur is a real treat.  The turtles are also a big hit with not just the children, but we have many adults who want to pet them as well."

The program will continue Wednesday, June 23 at 11 a.m. with Bookish Beats presented by Debbie Koening with the Mingo National Wildlife Refuge.

Pictured: Children's librarian Chris Hillis (left) and Keller Library Director Jordan Myers with Chomper.