St. Paul, MN – According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), late May through early July marks a critical time for turtle conservation as nesting season peaks across the state. During this period, many of Minnesota’s native wildlife species, particularly turtles, leave their aquatic habitats to lay eggs on land, often crossing roads and facing significant risks from vehicle traffic. The DNR is urging the public to exercise caution and assist these vulnerable creatures to ensure their safety and contribute to the preservation of the state’s biodiversity.
Each year, countless turtles are injured or killed on Minnesota’s roadways as they search for suitable nesting sites, often in sandy or gravelly areas near water. Female turtles are especially at risk during this migration, as they may travel considerable distances to find the perfect spot to lay their eggs. The DNR emphasizes that helping a turtle cross the road can be a simple yet impactful way to support local wildlife populations. Motorists are encouraged to slow down in areas near wetlands, lakes, and rivers, where turtle activity is typically higher during nesting season.
When assisting a turtle, the DNR advises taking safety precautions for both the helper and the animal. If it is safe to stop, individuals should move the turtle in the direction it was heading, placing it well off the road to prevent it from returning to danger. It’s important not to relocate turtles to new areas, as they are likely to attempt returning to their original destination. For snapping turtles, which can be more defensive, the DNR suggests using a shovel or a car mat to gently nudge them across or to lift them safely by holding the back of their shell. Additionally, the public is reminded that it is illegal to possess wild turtles without a permit, ensuring that these animals remain in their natural habitat.
The DNR also highlights the broader challenges facing turtle populations in Minnesota, including habitat loss, pollution, and road mortality. These factors have contributed to declines in several species, making public awareness and action during nesting season even more crucial. For those who encounter an injured turtle, the DNR recommends contacting a local wildlife rehabilitator for assistance rather than attempting to care for the animal independently. This ensures that the turtle receives proper medical attention and can potentially be released back into the environment.
To expand on the significance of these efforts, recent data from the Minnesota DNR indicates that road mortality is a leading cause of death for adult turtles, with some studies estimating that up to 20% of local populations in high-traffic areas are affected annually. This statistic underscores the urgent need for driver vigilance and community involvement in protecting these ancient reptiles. Furthermore, a specific example of conservation in action can be seen in the efforts to protect the Blanding’s turtle, a threatened species in Minnesota. The DNR, in collaboration with local organizations, has implemented nesting site enhancements and road signage in areas like the Weaver Dunes along the Mississippi River, where one of the largest remaining populations of Blanding’s turtles resides. These targeted projects aim to reduce mortality and support species recovery within the state’s outdoors.
Beyond individual actions, the DNR encourages reporting turtle sightings through community science initiatives to help track populations and identify critical crossing areas. Such data can inform future conservation strategies, including the potential installation of turtle crossing signs or barriers in high-risk zones. By fostering a collective responsibility, the DNR hopes to mitigate the threats facing turtles and ensure their survival for generations to come. The nesting season serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and the natural world, urging everyone to play a part in safeguarding Minnesota’s wildlife.
For more information, visit Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.