Watch the Road, Save a Turtle: Tips for Upstate New Yorkers

You might spot turtles trying to cross the road this time of year. Female turtles are searching for places to lay their eggs, which often means traveling across streets to reach nesting areas. Sadly, many turtles are struck by vehicles each year in New York.

You can help by staying alert, especially near wetlands, ponds, or areas marked with turtle crossing signs. If you see a turtle on the road, slow down if it’s safe and only stop if you can fully pull off the road with your hazard lights on.

When moving a turtle, never pick it up by the tail. That can cause serious injuries. Most turtles can be safely lifted by holding both sides of their shell near the middle. Keep a firm grip—turtles may kick to get loose, and dropping them could harm their shell or eggs. Always move the turtle in the direction it was heading.

Snapping turtles are a bit trickier. They have strong jaws and long necks, so do not try to carry them the same way. Instead, hold the back of the shell near the tail, or gently slide something like a car mat underneath to drag them across the road. Do not lift or drag them by the tail.

If you find an injured turtle, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for help. Turtles are protected in New York and should never be taken home as pets or moved far from where they were found. Let turtles stay wild where they belong.