Audubon Community Nature Center has completed two steps on the way to naming the 12-foot long concrete turtle that lives near its outdoor Nature Play Area. Sunday, June 30, is the deadline for visitors to vote at the Nature Center.

Those with loose change when they come to the lobby of the Audubon Community Nature Center can “vote” on a name for the 12-foot concrete turtle that lives near the Nature Play Area.

Last fall, the 1,500 pound, larger-than-life turtle was created and donated to Audubon by Mike Whitmire of Whitmire Block and Outdoor Living, Starbrick, Pa. In seeking help for a name for the popular feature, staff selected six finalists from those submitted to Audubon’s website and in person.

Through Sunday, June 30, Audubon Community Nature Center visitors can cast their vote for their favorite name by using their loose change. The intention is to encourage children to participate in the voting process as much as possible. Each coin will count as one vote.

The turtle name will be revealed and the winner(s) announced on Thursday, July 4. The winner(s) will receive a personal meet-and-greet with some of Audubon’s live turtles and a Nature Center family membership.

The following are the finalists, along with the explanations given for the nominations:

¯ Audie: “It’s a nickname for Audubon.” (Debbie)

¯ Hah-nu-nah: “This is the name of the Haudenausaunee turtle that holds up the world.” (Kathleen)

¯ Homer: “Levi, my 3 year old, wanted to name his baby brother Homer. We said no, so he thought maybe you’d use this name for the turtle!” (Erin)

¯ Shelldon (yes, with two “l”s): “Because its my favorite singer and he has a shell and he looks like a boy.” (Adam) And “It has a huge shell, and is a clever name for the giant!” (Antoinette)

¯ Tank: “… if a turtle was a machine it would be a tank.” (Wyatt) And “It’s big, strong, indestructible shell is camouflage green, like a military tank.” (Elaine)

¯ Whitty: “I think it is a good name because Mr. Whitmire was creative and made him. And I think Whitty goes well as a first name for a giant concrete turtle.” (Madysen)

The Audubon Community Nature Center is located at 1600 Riverside Road, one-quarter mile east of Route 62 between Jamestown and Warren. For more information, call 569-2345 or visit auduboncnc.org.