Turtles are on the move for nesting season

GREENE COUNTY―In New York State, thousands of turtles are killed each year by unsuspecting drivers while they are crossing roads to find nesting areas.

These tiny shell-dwellers are often spotted on or near roads in May and June as they search for sandy areas or loose soils to lay their eggs. Thus, the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is urging motorists to “Give Turtles a Brake.”

“Vehicle strikes are a major cause of turtle mortality this time of year, so DEC is asking drivers to be cautious, be on the lookout, and slow down, especially on roads near rivers and marshy areas,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton.

According to the DEC, most of the 11 species of land turtles that are native to New York are in decline. It takes many years for a turtle to reach maturity and losing even one mature female can have a negative impact on a local population.

Drivers who see a turtle on the road are encouraged to slow down to avoid hitting it. If the driver can safely stop and exit the vehicle, motorists should consider moving the turtle to the shoulder on the side of the road in the direction it was facing.

Motorists are advised not to pick up or drag turtles by their tails because they can injure the turtle. Most turtles, other than snapping turtles, can be picked up safely by the sides of their shells. It is important to maintain a secure grip as turtles may kick to loosen your hold and dropping them can result in potential injury, DEC advises.

Snapping turtles on the other hand require special care when handling. They have long necks that can snap back and inflict a strong bite if held by the sides. Instead, snapping turtles should be picked up by the rear of the shell using both hands or carefully slid onto a mat or blanket and dragged safely across the road.

DEC also reminds people not to take turtles home. All native turtles are protected by law and cannot be kept without a permit for specific purposes and never as pets.

A licensed wildlife rehabilitator may be able to help if an injured turtle is found. To search rehabilitators by county, visit appfactory.dec.ny.gov/SpecialLicensesSearchSystem/rehab.