Reptiles

Slow, Turtle Crossing is a sign that should be put up on many North Carolina highways. Turtles often can be seen crossing the road in spring. If you see a turtle on the road, and can safely do so, move it to the side of the road in the direction it was heading.

Never remove a healthy turtle from its natural habitat. Relocation takes a heavy toll on turtles, as proven by a study of box turtles at Davidson College in North Carolina. When released in a new area, turtles often fall victim to traffic and predators as they try to return to their home range.

Turtles often suffer shell damage in vehicle collisions or when a predator, such as the family dog, chews on their shell. Fishing hooks and carelessly discarded fishing line also present dangers. Litter, especially the plastic rings from soda and beer cans, can injure or kill turtles.

If you find an injured turtle, put it in a well-ventilated cardboard box or plastic container lined with newspaper or a towel. Put a shallow dish of water into the box. Keep the box in an area away from children, pets and loud noises.

Use gloves when handling turtles, or wash your hands immediately afterward. Be especially careful with snapping turtles. They have powerful jaws and tend to hold on when they bite. For more information, call our hotline at: 336-785-0912.