The local Humane Society reminds motorists in Wellington County to give turtles a break.
Turtles are in the midst of their egg-laying season, which will continue until early July. Females often will lay their eggs in the sandy, gravel shoulders along roads. And crossing the road puts them at significant risk of injuries or death due to collisions with vehicles.
If it's safe, you can help move a turtle across the road in the direction they are heading. Approach from the rear, and use a shovel or car mat in case it is a snapping turtle.
There are eight native species of turtles in Ontario, and all are designated as either endangered, threatened, or of special concern. Road mortality is second only to habitat loss, as a contributing factor to declining populations.
The Guelph Humane society encourages anyone in Wellington County to contact them if a turtle is injured
