It’s Turtle Crossing Season in New Hampshire so Do the Right Thing

It is that time of year again, my friends. And as a turtle mother I would like to release a PSA that turtle crossing season is upon us and if you are able to safely give them a BRAKE, please do so.

According to New Hampshire Fish and Game, last week was the start of national Wild Turtle Week and in New Hampshire nesting season is upon us! Expect to see many of these shelled friends move from wetlands and vernal pools to their upland nesting sites. Nesting season lasts from mid-May into early July.

I recently learned that one of the biggest threats to turtle populations in New Hampshire is being struck by vehicles on roadways. NH Fish and Game states that mature female turtles leave their home ponds every spring to lay their eggs, sometimes traveling distances of over one mile. As you can imagine, for a turtle this is quite a pilgrimage. Then they return to the same nesting location each year. This annual journey often means that turtles need to cross roads to reach their destinations

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As you're zipping down these New Hampshire roads with your windows down and singing an off-key rendition of "Liar" by Jellyroll, don't forget about the turtles. They could be crossing the street at their slowed turtle-ish pace, and if you are being a little speed demon, you could squash that turtle (who is most likely a mother). Don't be that person.

Also,  NH Fish and Game suggests if you see a turtle crossing a road, help it cross in the direction it is traveling (if it is safe for you to do so). However, be sure to never create a dangerous situation for yourself or other drivers.

Do you brake for turtles? Have you ever helped on across the road?