Warm Up on a Log
Western painted turtles often bask in the sun on logs or other dry places to warm their bodies.
Meet the River Friends
Hello, Teacher Willow!
The Turtle
Meet Teacher Willow! She helps guide the Angler Pals at Little Current River School. Learn about this friendly turtle and the real turtles found around the Columbia River.
Get to Know the Pals
Who Is Teacher Willow?
Meet Teacher Willow, the turtle at River School!
Teacher Willow is the Pals’ teacher at Little Current River School. She joins Scout, Coco, Finn, Ruby, and Stella as they learn about the river and discover new things together.
There’s more to discover as the Angler Pals adventures continue!
Who she isTeacher Willow the Turtle
Where you’ll meet herLittle Current River School
FriendsThe Angler Pals
Teacher Willow’s River World
Fun Turtle Facts
Several kinds of turtles live in the Pacific Northwest. Here are facts about western painted turtles, one native turtle found along parts of the Columbia River.
Quiet Waters
Painted turtles like ponds, marshes, and slow-moving river areas with plants and muddy bottoms.
Eggs on Land
Even though they spend much of their time in water, female turtles lay their eggs on land.
Columbia River Neighbors
Western painted turtles live in parts of the Columbia River region, including quiet areas connected to the river.
Help Keep Their River Home Healthy
Keeping wetlands, calm waterways, and safe nesting places healthy helps native turtles. We can help by keeping litter out of waterways.
Learn more: Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife — Western Painted Turtle · Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife — Painted Turtle
More River Adventures
Visit the Other Pals!
Teacher Willow has more friends to introduce you to. Come meet the Pals, then discover their adventures in our storybooks.
Meet the Other PalsSee Our Book Collection