TCD MS 10516 folio 65 recto
[12th October 1916] doubtedly considers whether or not it can reach the water without being intercepted. It weighs its own slow gait against the activity of its foe. If the distance is not too great, it will make a dash for the water and trust in this way to make its escape. If it is further inland, it fully recognises that its speed could avail it nothing, so it remains perfectly motionless trusting by stealth to avoid detection. Surely this torpid creature can claim its own small share of intelligence when, in the face of danger, it can consider its mode of action and conform its strategy to changing circumstances.
Both these tortoises used to lay their eggs on the banks of the river. In the two species the eggs differ in shape. Those of the Caspian Water Tortoise are long