Turtleclan
The cats lurking within the swamp.
Turtlestar
The founder and current leader of Turtleclan. Previously a loner named Mangrove.
Cats of turtleclan
Once the group of cats split up into the three separate clans, Mangrove, now Turtlestar, took her group with her to the swamps she called home. These cats took up residence in an abandoned cabin of sorts deep within the swamp.
As these clans have only existed for a few years now, any differences they have from the other clans aren't extremely defined or widespread. That being said, these swamp cats tend to have more wiry fur and have darker coat colors to blend in more with their surroundings.
The Territory
Turtleclan's territory is primarily composed of swamp. Their territory extends a bit north into the normal forest, and east to the river where they head for Gatherings.
Notable locations within the territory include the abandoned twoleg house in the middle of the swamp. It's a rotting, old house that's falling apart. A popular spot for braver apprentices to go hang out, especially with the rumors about ghosts nearby.
While being swamp-cats, the clan's camp actually rests just outside the swamp, on the border of the forest. The camp is on a ledge overlooking the swamp, so no alligators can get to it. Their camp is the only one that's not underground. The side of camp opposite the ledge is full of trees and bushes to shield the camp from view of anything wandering the forest. There's a hidden entrance into the forest, and an old hollow log leaning against the ridge to allow the cats to safely exit camp into the swampy territory.
The leader's den is dug out under a tree stump, while the Warriors' and Apprentices' dens are each hidden under large stones. The nursery is a den under a dense bush and the medicine cat's den is under the roots of a still-living tree near the leader's den.
Culture & Customs
Turtleclan cats don't mind the mud and bugs they deal with in the swamp. Of course, they always thoroughly bathe themselves before heading into their dens, but it doesn't phase them as much as it would the cats from other clans. They've either gotten used to it, or cats that couldn't moved to another clan they felt suited better to.
The cats in this clan tend to feast on amphibians, birds, small rodents, and sometimes fish when other prey is scarce. They are primarily ambush predators, sitting and waiting in the moss until unsuspecting prey drops by. Cats aren't allowed out into the territory without a group of three or more cats due to the dangers in the waters. Alligators aren't very common, but cats must be hypervigilant not to run into them. Any alligator sightings are to be reported to the leader or deputy as soon as possible.
In late Leaffall, cats from all the clans come to Turtleclan territory for the yearly holiday. Cats from all clans above 6 moons meet up at the edge of the swamp. There's a hunting contest and a feast afterwards. Any leftovers are split between Turtleclan and the winner of the hunting competition.