SIMCOE REPORTER (Ontario) 11 October 13 Drivers in Norfolk are being reminded to watch out for baby turtles. (Sarah Doktor)
“We are right in the midst of turtle hatching season,” explained Gregor Beck, director of conservation and science with the Long Point Basin Land Trust.
There are many hatchling turtles, about the size of a loonie or toonie, that are crossing roads as they try to find their way to a safe place in wetlands and woodlands. Turtle hatching happens throughout the fall, as well some hatchlings emerge in the spring.
With their small size they go easily unnoticed.
“It is a really hard go for them,” said Beck. “Drivers have to be very watchful of them.”
Drivers are likely to see baby turtles crossing the street for the next several weeks.
While turtles are typically found close to wetlands and woodlands, they can be found in other places.
“You could find a baby turtle just about anywhere,” said Beck. It depends on how far the female turtle wandered looking for a place to lay her eggs.
They look for areas that have gravel or sand, which often brings them to the sides of roadways.
If you see a baby turtle on the road, you are encouraged to help it find its way safely if possible.
“Make sure you are parked safely and then get it off the road,” said Beck. “Try to put the turtle in the direction they are headed.”
Baby turtles are usually easy to handle, but you should wash your hands after handling them, said Beck.
While helping a turtle across the road may seem like a small action, if turtles make it past their first few weeks of life they can live for decades.
“Road hazard is huge,” said Beck. “You've given them a huge boost. If you leave a baby turtle on a busy road, it's not going to make it.”
Many native snakes are also finding their ways onto roads as they travel to wintering areas or to soak up the warmth from the pavement, said Beck.
If residents see a turtle or snake, they are encouraged to report their sightings on www.longpointlandtrust.ca.
“It helps us understand how the population is doing and identify problem spots,” said Beck.
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