Photo courtesy of USARK - United States Assoc. of Reptile Keepers
This is the time of year for turtles to start crossing the road. A couple of quick things to remember if you are like me and like to rescue these wayward reptiles from the dangers of motor vehicles. First, place them off the road IN THE DIRECTION THEY WERE HEADED and shoo them further away from the road if possible. Second, each turtle has its own habitat so do NOT take them to a nearby lake or stream. They live nearby and need that specific habitat in order to live and reproduce. Third, never pick up a turtle, even a large snapper, by the tail (as it will harm the turtle). Rather, get a towel, or sweatshirt and lift it carefully by the shell. I keep a cloth bag and old towel in my van for just this purpose. But be careful, snappers can do some serious damage so hold onto the portion of the shell near the back legs and scoop it into a bag or bin. Then place it where it was headed, way off the road. Thanks for your help! The rare Blandings turtles will be out on Tipsico Lake Road and nearby areas, so do your best to WATCH THOSE ROADS!
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