Watch out, Wisconsin drivers: There are more turtles on the roads this time of year.
In late May and early June, female turtles emerge and begin heading toward their nesting sites, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
“When turtles are more active during nesting season, they face added risks,” Andrew Badje, a DNR conservation biologist, said in a news release. “Protecting adult females and turtle nests in the wild is essential for conserving Wisconsin turtle populations.”
How can I help Wisconsin turtles?
One way to protect turtles in Wisconsin is by reporting sightings. Any sightings can be reported online to the DNR, with between 600 and 1,000 typically reported each year, the news release says.
The reports help the DNR track Wisconsin’s turtle population by identifying crossing hotspots and nesting areas across the state.
The agency also recommends driving carefully on roads at this time of year, especially near rivers, lakes or wetlands.
If you’re feeling ambitious, the DNR has step-by-step instructions for building a turtle nest cage that helps protect it from predators and lets hatchlings leave on their own.
Can I help turtles I see crossing the road?
Only assist turtles crossing the street when it’s safe for you to do so, especially on busier roads, the DNR said. You shouldn’t grab a turtle by the tail, and be careful with more aggressive species, such as softshell or snapping turtles.
It sometimes helps to use gloves or a car mat to gently slide more aggressive turtles across the road.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: See a turtle crossing the road in Wisconsin? Here’s how to help
Reporting by Blaise Mesa, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
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