With the return of spring weather, turtles in Quebec are busy feeding, sheltering, mating and finding ideal nesting sites. Unfortunately, this increase in activity can lead them to cross roads or travel alongside them, which increases their chances of being hit by passing vehicles.
One of the main threats to the survival of Quebec’s eight at-risk turtle species is road mortality. Data collected by the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s Carapace initiative shows an average of around 80 turtles die each year because of collisions with vehicles. The organization notes that turtle populations are so fragile that the loss of a single turtle can jeopardize the population’s survival. The NCC is encouraging the public to stay vigilant during nesting in June and the hatching periods from late summer to the fall when adult females and hatchlings are at the greatest risk. Turtle sightings can be reported on carapace.ca.
Should you come across a turtle on the road, the NCC suggests drivers and passengers can assist it in crossing the road in the direction it was already heading. If the turtle must be moved, grab it firmly on each side of its shell, unless it is a snapping turtle. Injured turtles can be reported to the Centre de Rehabilitation pour les Tortues at 450-622-1020 ext. 286. (SR)