Preserving At Risk Turtle Populations

Ausable Bayfield Conservation is trying to educate the public on what they can do to to help preserve at risk turtle populations in this area. Spokesperson Hope Brock says turtles are dying because of dwindling habitat and road-crossing deaths. She has advice for anyone who sees a turtle crossing a roadway and can safely stop to help them. "You can pick them up by the sides of their shell and move them across the road in the direction they were going," she says. "With snapping turtles, you have to handle them by the back of their shells only." Of the eight native turtle species in Ontario, seven are at risk. The Organization is sponsoring a colouring contest for kids 12 and under to help celebrate World Turtle Day May 23. Information can be found at www.abca.on.ca and entries must be in by May 20.