Turtles are essential to biodiversity; here’s how to help keep them safe
Please slow your speed on our roads (for many good reasons).
With June nipping at our heels, it’s turtle egg-laying season for most of our indigenous species, like the snapping and painted turtles. Please slow your speed on our roads (for many good reasons).
Egg-laying snapping turtles will cross roads indiscriminately to get to where they need to be. If you see what looks like a stone, it could be a snapping turtle. Stop and wait if the turtle is in your lane; flash headlights to slow down oncoming traffic if the turtle is in the opposing lane. If you know how to move this turtle — always in the direction that the turtle’s head is pointing — do help. But snapping turtles are tricky! Calling for help is always best.
Painted turtles might move more quickly, but they are harder to see on roads. Why not have a pair of disposable gloves in your car? Learn how to pick up a painted turtle by its sides, gently, and watch a YouTube video to understand what to do to help any turtle cross the road.
Acton’s elementary school science program works to save the Blanding’s turtle. Minuteman High School has a wonderful animal/vet science program. Acton-Carlisle High School educates its students about the relationship of man to nature through many courses — even math.
Turtles are essential to biodiversity, a fundamental principle of Earth’s sustainability. Protect them, please.
Patricia Geyer
Estabrook Road
The author is a member of the town Finance Committee, writing on her own behalf.
