Fertile turtles on the go, please drive slow!
In Northern Michigan, the months of May, June, and July bring sunny weather, warm temperatures, and turtles on the move! Oftentimes, people will observe these turtles along roadways as they travel between habitats or in search of nesting sites.
During nesting season, female turtles may traverse long distances to find the ideal location to lay their eggs, which sometimes involves crossing roads. Additionally, turtles might venture across roads while exploring their surroundings or in search of food sources, as some roads may inadvertently be situated along their natural migration paths. Unfortunately, road crossings can be perilous for these reptiles, making it crucial for us to be vigilant and help them safely reach their destinations.
Many of the turtles traveling the roadways are decades old, and have traveled these same routes long before there were roads fragmenting their habitat.
Recently, we helped rehabilitate and release a wood turtle that fell victim to a vehicle. The shell was broken, so we worked with North Sky Raptor Sanctuary and the West Michigan Wildlife Center to medically treat her, set her shell, and rehabilitate her for release. We are happy to report that the wood turtle’s shell mended, and was released back into the wild.
More about wood turtles
Wood turtles (Glyptemys insculpta) are a medium-sized species of freshwater turtles native to North America. They are characterized by their distinct appearance, featuring a high-domed carapace (upper shell) with intricate yellow-orange markings on dark brown or black backgrounds. These turtles primarily inhabit clear, slow-moving streams and rivers with sandy or gravelly bottoms, where they forage for a varied diet of aquatic plants, insects, and small vertebrates. Wood turtles are known for their exceptional ability to navigate and may travel significant distances over land, making them one of the few turtle species that undertake overland movements to find suitable nesting sites or seasonal habitats. Unfortunately, like many other turtle species, they face threats such as habitat loss, road mortality, and illegal pet trade, making conservation efforts vital for their survival.
What to do if you encounter a turtle on the road
When you encounter a turtle crossing the road, it's important to take certain precautions to ensure its safety:
1. Slow down: Reduce your speed and be prepared to stop if you see a turtle on the road. Give yourself and other drivers enough time to notice and react to the situation
2. Stay safe: If it's safe to do so, pull over to the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights, and use your car to shield the turtle from oncoming traffic.
3. Assess the situation: Determine if the turtle is in immediate danger and if it's safe for you to intervene. If the turtle is small enough and you can do so safely, you may gently pick it up and move it to the side of the road in the direction it was heading.
4. Handle with care: When handling the turtle, make sure to hold it by the sides of its shell, avoiding its head and limbs. Never lift a turtle by its tail as this can cause injury. Remember, anything with a mouth can bite, and a small turtle startled by the encounter may bite to defend itself. The turtle also will likely pee, a defense mechanism that helps it escape.
5. Watch out for snapping turtles: Be cautious when dealing with snapping turtles, as they have powerful jaws and can bite if they feel threatened. You may want to use a long stick or a shovel to nudge them gently out of harm's way.
6. Keep the turtle's orientation: If you move the turtle, ensure it is facing the direction it was heading, as it might try to cross the road again if it's placed in the opposite direction.
7. Never take a wild turtle home: It's important not to remove turtles from their natural habitats. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem, and interfering with their natural behavior can be harmful.
Remember, safety should always be your top priority when assisting turtles on the road. If it's unsafe to stop or handle the turtle yourself, do not do so. Give us a call or text for assistance.
