GIVE TURTLES A ‘BRAKE:’ New York DEC reminds drivers to beware of nesting turtles along the roads

The months of May and June are typically the times for turtles to nest in New York State and the DEC is reminding drivers to keep a sharp eye out for turtles in the roadways.

Drivers who see a turtle on the road are encouraged to slow down to avoid hitting it with their vehicle.

If the driver can safely stop and exit the vehicle, the DEC says they should consider moving the turtle to the shoulder on the side of the road in the direction it was facing.

Motorists are advised not to pick up or drag turtles by their tails. Most turtles, other than snapping turtles, can be picked up safely by the sides of their shells.

It is important to maintain a secure grip as turtles may kick to loosen your hold and dropping them can result in potential injury.

Snapping turtles require special care when handling — they have long necks that can snap back and inflict a strong bite if held by the sides. Instead, turtles should be picked up by the rear of the shell using both hands or carefully slid onto a mat or blanket and dragged safely across the road.

***See example video clip on how to safely move a snapping turtle across the road***

“Our state is home to a wide range of turtle species and today DEC is calling on New Yorkers to do their part to help protect these long-lived species and ‘Give Turtles a Brake,’” said Acting Commissioner Lefton.

“Vehicle strikes are a major cause of turtle mortality this time of year, so DEC is asking drivers to be cautious, be on the lookout, and slow down, especially on roads near rivers and marshy areas.”

DEC reminds people not to take turtles home. All native turtles are protected by law and cannot be kept without a DEC permit.

According to the DEC, most of the 11 species of land turtles that are native to New York are in decline. It takes many years for a turtle to reach maturity.

Losing even one mature female can have a negative impact on a local population, the DEC says.

NYS DEC Snapping Turtle image.