State Urges Drivers To Watch For Turtles During May/June Mating Season

NEW YORK STATE — New York is home to countless species of animals. And while many of them will scamper away as humans approach, not all of them are fast enough. As turtles enter their nesting season in May and June, the state is urging people to watch out for them on roads.

Every year, thousands of turtles across the state are killed as they cross roads trying to find nesting spots. The state is urging drivers to "give turtles a break" and keep an eye out for them on roadways.

"While a turtle's shell provides protection from predators, it does not protect against being struck by vehicles while crossing roadways," said the state Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos. "Vehicle strikes are a major cause of mortality among turtles and New York's native turtles are more susceptible at this time of year as they seek sandy areas or loose soil in which to lay their eggs. Especially in these coming weeks, DEC urges New York drivers to be on the lookout for turtles and slow down, particularly on roads near rivers and marshy areas."

New York is home to 11 native species of land turtles, all of which are in decline. Turtles are long-lived, but it can take them up to 10 years to reach breeding age in some cases. Turtles only lay eggs once a year, and officials say that losing just one breeding female can have a major impact on the population.

Drivers who see a turtle on the road are encouraged to slow down to avoid hitting it. If it's safe to stop, drivers can help the turtle by moving it off the roadway and to the shoulder, making sure to keep it in the direction it was facing. Pick up turtles by the shell, not the tail, because picking them up by the tail can injure them.

Turtles can be safely picked up by the sides of their shells, except for snapping turtles. They have a longer neck and a strong bite. If you see a snapping turtle, pick it up by the back of the shell using both hands. Or slip a car mat under it and drag it across the road. Don't drag it by the tail, because that can injure the turtle.

Also, don't take turtles home with you. Turtles are protected by law and cannot be taken as pets.

If you see a turtle (or any animal) that is injured, don't try to care for it yourself. You can use this DEC website to find a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in the area who will be able to help.