| Turtle Pond (picture by Peter Watts) |  |
Turtle Pond
Photographer Description of Turtle Pond
Panorama taken from the eastern end of Turtle Pond in Central Park, New York. At the time this picture was taken the waters of Turtle Pond were quite still, allowing some clear reflection of the sky and surrounding trees in the water. Turtles live in the waters here.Turtle Pond - Further Information
Turtle Pond lies next to Belvedere Castle in Central Park, New York. It was previously known as Belvedere Pond, after Belvedere Castle, which stands on the southwest shore. The pond rapidly became inhabited by fish, frogs, dragon flies and turtles. The pond was not originally part of the plans for Central Park, but have become a popular feature.Turtle Pond is in fact the remains of a large reservoir pool that is now mostly buried under the Great Lawn. It formed part of the water supply for New York along with the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir nearby.
During renovations of Central Park's Great Lawn, the Turtle Pond also received needed attention. Much of the shoreline was redeveloped to give the wildlife more, much of it small amphibians, better access. A large number of shoreline plants were also established to provide natural cover and a more natural feel to the pond. In the middle Turtle Island was built, which provides a refuge for migratory birds that use the park and pond. Turtle Pond is a popular spot for bird watching, with raptors such as osprey, hawks and eagles being sited along with water foul.
This picture, taken at the east end of Turtle Pond, shows the view over the pond towards Belvedere Castle. In the west is an equestrian statue of King Wladyslaw Jagiello, King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania. The king sits victoriously on the horse with 2 drawn swords above his head. The statue celebrates his 'victory over the Teutonic aggressors at Grunwald, July 15, 1410'
Travel Directions and Getting There:
Subway 81st Street (West side - A, B, C, D lines ), 77th Street (East side - 4, 5, 6 lines)
