05/18/2026
Be sure to take care of yourself first! Look both ways before you run out to help our turtle friends!
Vehicles are a common cause of mortality for many turtles. If you see one crossing a road this Memorial Day weekend, here are a few things you can do to help.
1. For a small turtle, such as this Eastern Box Turtle, pick them up by the side of their shell and move them across the road in the direction they were heading. The turtle may p*e on you, but thatâs OK. Tell any onlookers that turtle p*e is just part of your âdrip!â But see #5 below đ¤Ł).
2. Never pick up a Snapping Turtle by the side of its shell. Snapping turtles have long necks and powerful jaws. Rather, pick it up by the back of their shell near the hind legs. If itâs a large âSnapperâ (they can weigh over 30 lbs!), it may be easier to slide it on your vehicleâs floor mat in the direction it was heading. Be careful, though, as a Snapping Turtle may jump and try to bite you (they are trying to defend themself). It could also scratch you with its claws as you pick them up. If you have a pair of gloves in your vehicle, it may be wise to wear them if you are going to move a Snapper.
3. Never pick a turtle up by its tail as this can cause permanent damage to its spine.
4. Never move a turtle to another spot that looks like better habitat to you. The turtle will simply cross more roads to get back to their territory where you picked them up.
5. Wash your hands with 𧟠and then shellebrate your good deed!
More tips are in the comments.
