Every year in the month of May there’s an increase in the number of Turtles being seen on the roads.
Since I am in the field every day I cannot begin to tell you how many turtles I see on the road, and the number I see hit by cars. I understand that on some roads you can do your best to try to avoid them. However, sometimes there is no way to avoid hitting them without destroying your car in the process.
In many cases the simplest solution is to stop the car, get out and move the turtle off the road. It only takes a few extra minutes, and you will be saving a life. When you move a turtle move it in the direction it appears to be going, if this can be done safely for you and does not put the turtle in more danger. Never risk your life for a turtle! If you stop maybe someone else will see you, and will stop and do the same thing the next time.
Usually, the largest numbers of turtles are seen on the road first thing in the morning. A majority of the turtles that are on the move and crossing roads at this time of year are the females that are heading for nesting grounds.
While reading about turtles crossing the road I found some excellent information on the Humane Society website about what you can do to prevent Vehicle/Animal Collisions. Following is an excerpt:
“Scan the road as you drive, watching the edges for wildlife about to cross. Not only will this help you to avoid harming or killing wildlife, but it will also make you more aware of other hazards such as bicyclists, children at play and slowly moving vehicles.
“Be Alert!
“Be especially watchful for wildlife at dawn, dusk, and in the first few hours after darkness falls. Many species of wildlife are most active at these times.
“Edges of roads that border agricultural fields or natural habitats are places to be particularly watchful for wildlife.
“Assume that animals do not know to get out of your way. Young animals, in particular, do not recognize cars as a threat.
“Lower your dashboard lights slightly. You'll be more likely to see your headlights reflected in the eyes of animals in time to brake.
“Every apple core, french fry and smelly sandwich wrapper tossed out of a car attracts wildlife to roadsides—often with fatal results. Never throw litter from your car.
“Remember that where there is one animal crossing, there may be more young animals following their mother or male animals pursuing a mate.
“Try to slow down, especially after dark. Many animals needlessly become victims simply because people drive too fast to avoid hitting them. Speed poses a risk to human safety as well.”
Every time you see a turtle on the road think about this--a box turtle can live 50 years in the wild. By ensuring that one female turtle lives you are giving the 5 or 6 eggs that she lays each year a chance. In the future at least one of those babies will survive to adulthood and will take her place to continue the species for future generations to enjoy.
1 comment:
Great Post!
I would also add the following:
Please be careful when mowing your lawn, especially around the edges.
Wild turtles should never be taken home, they are not pets.
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