Turtles In Trouble

The sight of a turtle basking on a log has always been a pleasant part of any visit to an Ontario wetland. But the presence of these species, something we once took for granted, is now being threatened.

Seven of the eight species have been identified by COSEWIC (the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada) as being at risk. Most turtle populations are declining and unless drastic measures are taken, scientists fear that several species may disappear from our province.

In Ontario, roadkill is one of the most significant causes of turtle mortality. The majority of the turtles being killed are nesting females. The adult female is extremely important to the survival of the population. Dr. Ron Brooks, professor at the University of Guelph, warns that even the loss of 1-2% of adults annually from the "extra" mortality of roadkill can, and will, inevitably push turtle populations toward extinction.

The Kawartha Turtle Trauma Centre tackles the hazard of roads head on through education, rehabilitation, and partnership. Through outreach programming, we aim to reduce the number of turtles hit by vehicles by teaching people of all ages and backgrounds to appreciate turtles, and keep an eye out for them when driving through wetland habitats. We suggest simple actions that can have large impacts, including reporting sightings to monitoring programs, helping turtles cross roads (when it’s safe!), and keeping their shoreline properties natural. Our “turtle hospital” has successfully treated and released hundreds of turtles that were hit by cars – many of whom would have died without treatment. And finally, we work with partners to amplify our impact through information sharing, cross-promotion and cross-training.