What to do if you see a Turtle on the road

Turtles and tortoises are on the move when the weather heats up. Females, in particular, may be hunting for a site to nest—which, unfortunately, may be on the other side of a road. Some turtle habitats are completely surrounded by roadways, putting these turtles at a higher chance of being hit by a vehicle.

Since roadkill disproportionately affects mature females, losing a few turtles per year due to vehicle strikes could tip the balance into approaching extinction (a localised extinction) in some species.

Turtles in decline

Turtles surpassed dinosaurs and have been wandering around the world for more than 200 million years, due to their built-in protection. They may, however, outlive humanity.

"The ecological value of turtles, specifically freshwater turtles, is neglected, as they are often understudied by ecologists," says Josh Ennen, a research scientist at Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute. "The worrisome rate of turtle extinction could have a significant impact on how ecosystems function as well as the structure of plant and animal communities worldwide."

If you see a turtle on the road

Considering the fact that turtles are little and slow and that vehicles are large and rapid, the slow-moving turtles require every assistance they can get when navigating a road. PETA suggests the following actions.

Stop Properly

If you see a turtle on the road, pull off safely to a secure position and assist them in moving fast.

Guide Them in the Correct Way

Always accompany turtles in the direction they're going; if not they'll turn back towards traffic, eager to arrive at their destination.

Picking up small turtles

Small turtles can be carried across the road by carefully grabbing their outer shells with both hands between their front and rear legs. (Please note avoid picking up a turtle by its tail.)

Adopt extra care when dealing with big and dangerous turtles

Big turtles and snapping turtles need to be treated with care. Turtles can be carefully persuaded into a cat or dog cage or into a flat, solid object (such as a piece of robust cardboard) and can be transported a short distance safely with the turtle on top.

You Shouldn't Assume a Turtle Is Dead

Do not assume that a turtle struck by a car is killed. Turtles, according to PETA, have an extremely fast metabolism and endure pain for weeks before dying. Although the shell is fractured or smashed the turtle could still need your support, no matter how miserable the situation appears.

"During the summer, roadways become turtle-killing zones, and PETA advises people to remain vigilant and keep an eye out for the opportunity to be a turtle rescuer," says PETA Vice President Emily Allen.

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