Turtles will repeat their movements year after year, and most will hardly change their course over their lifetimes. There are some turtles known to hibernate within 1m of where they hibernated the previous year; females are loyal to nest areas; and studies have found that often cross roads within 50m of where they do each year.
When and where to watch out for turtles
Turtles often move between wetland areas where roads intersect these habitats, and they also move according to the weather and the season, feeling more comfortable when it is raining and mid-line temperatures. Understanding these patterns will help you keep them safe, protect their habitats, and also look out for them on roads.
Seasonal patterns of turtles you may encounter
Typical patterns in eastern North America for freshwater turtles that are encountered often are:
- March to April: basking in their hibernation wetlands to warm up and digest lactic acid build up over the winter
- End of April to mid May: migration to summer grounds (both males and females may be crossing roads)
- Mid May to July: nesting season for many turtles who may be at the sides of the roads where the substrate and area is ideal in the minds of momma-turtle.
- July to August: freshwater turtles that you typically encounter are in summer areas, to feed and stay cool, which usually means larger bodies of water.
- End of August to October: hatch out for some species and their first migration to hibernation sites. Migration of adults to annual hibernation sites.
Spring and Fall:
Did you find the turtle crossing the road? If it is safe to stop and help, help the turtle in the direction to where they were heading (see how to help snapping/softshell turtles).
Unsure/in the middle of the road? If it is safe to do so, watch the turtle by keeping at least a car length away and see if they "show you" which side they are headed to. Otherwise, Google the nearest water source on either side of the road, then carry the turtle staying close to the ground (turtles use earth magnetics to help them navigate) and set them down gently. If they move easily and freely further off the road, this is likely the direction they were heading to.
Nesting Season
(mid May to July in eastern North America)
On the shoulder or in nesting season? At this time mother turtles may be nesting on roadsides, and will often do a U-turn back to the wetlands behind her, once she is finished. If the turtle is actively nesting, do not spook her and give her a wide berth and text us at 705-854-2888. If she is walking, she will be wobbly and slow. In this case, watch her to see if she is turning around and help her in the direction she is heading.
Does the Turtle Need Help?
If you suspect the turtle is in trouble because they are not moving or have not moved for a long time (turtles can get cold stunned or heat stroke when temperatures are close to freezing or above 28 degrees C/82 degrees F) please call or text us at 705-854-2888 for support.
If the turtle is 'stuck" or in an obscure location and you are unsure if they are enroute to their next natural destination, get in touch with us.
Hatchlings
If you find a very tiny turtle in your "hood" it is recommended to take them to the nearest natural aquatic habitat and release them. Slow moving waters with natural vegetation are good areas for new hatchlings to find safe cover and food. In Canada it is illegal to take a native turtle as a pet (fines can be up to $100,00.00 and if considered in the pet trade up to $1M); and many species in the USA are similarly protected.
* Red Eared Sliders
If you find a Red Eared Slider in most parts of the USA or Canada, these turtles are invasive and outcompete with Native species. They also can transmit diseases to Native turtles. Therefore, should you find one of these turtles (with red markings that obvious and by their ears) please call us and we will direct you to a rehoming/rescue service.
Learn more about turtle's ability to make spatial memories
Turtles are attached to their homes; these areas are like their languages.
If you are unsure of what to do and need guidance, text us!
