West Plains, MO. – The Missouri Department of Conservation is sharing awareness of Wild Turtle Week. The U.S. has more turtle species than any other country, but many populations are dramatically declining due to habitat loss, road mortality, and illegal collection.
Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, P.A.R.C., shared six ways you can help wild turtles.
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- Don’t Share Specifics: Only post general locations of wild turtles online.
- Get the Shell off the Road: If it’s safe, help turtles cross roads in the direction they are heading.
- Leave turtles in their homes: Wild turtles have complex needs and are unlikely to fare well in captivity without specialized veterinary care.
- Rehome Unwanted Pets, or Take to a Shelter: Never release pet turtles in the wild. Your pet is unlikely to survive in the wild and it could harm other wildlife by introducing diseases.
- Report Wildlife Crime: Familiarize yourself with state and national laws that protect native turtles and regulate their possession and collection.
- Help Turtles Thrive in Nature: Look for Volunteer opportunities to support turtle habitat in your community or at home.
You can educate yourself further on helping wild turtles by clicking this link: https://parcplace.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Six-Ways-to-Help-Turtles.pdf
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