23/05/2022
If you see a turtle crossing the road, and it’s safe to do so, please stop and help them.
Today is World Turtle Day!
Here in Ontario, we have eight native turtle species; Blanding’s, eastern musk, northern map, painted (midland and western), snapping, spiny softshell, spotted and the wood turtle.
Sadly, all eight species listed above have been designated as Species at Risk.
The main cause of this classification is habitat destruction. Swamps, marshes and bogs are often altered, drained or filled in for new development projects. Road mortality is the second largest threat to the turtle population due to new roads being constructed through the remaining wetlands.
If you’d like to learn more about the plight of Ontario turtles and how you can help, please check out our friends at the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre.
