it's turtle nesting season again and i am more aware than ever of the number of turtles dead on the road at this time of year. last week on a short drive to Peterborough i saw at least 4 dead adults. i also stopped on the 401 near Guelph to remove an adult snapping turtle from the road and out of danger.
moving turtles off the road is contentious and SAFETY should always be considered first. here's some advice i found online at Turtle S.H.E.L.L, a company that make turtle crossing signs.
"If you believe the animal to be in immediate danger and you wish to help, make a safe stop. Help it across the road in the direction in which it was heading or if it appears to be advancing toward more danger, take it to a nearby suitable environment. A swampy area with a sandy bank behind it would be ideal. If the turtle is obviously headed away from the water body in which it lives, do not take it back to the water. It will only retrace its steps to get to the nesting area.
Smaller species such as Painted Turtles or Blanding’s Turtles can simply be lifted and carried by hand or in a bucket or box. Be aware that they have claws and do not put your fingers near their beaks -- they are frightened and might bite. Large Snapping Turtles are likely to bite and scratch so they should be handled carefully and by adults or older children only."
injured turtles can be taken to wildlife rehabilitation centres, but you must make note of EXACTLY where the turtle was found so that it can be returned to its home once healed. if the turtle can't be healed, a vet will be able to put it to sleep. sightings of rare species should be reported to NHIC so that they can be protected in future.
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