REGION — With summer on the way, the forests and streams of northern Michigan are coming alive again as animals emerge from winter. Unfortunately, not all of them are safe. Turtles, in particular, are being hit on area roads.
When a turtle is struck by a vehicle, it often does not die right away. Many suffer for hours or even days before dying from their injuries. Some that are found in time are taken to the A.R.K., a nonprofit in St. Helen that rescues, rehabilitates and releases orphaned, injured and displaced wildlife.
At the A.R.K., turtles receive care from dedicated volunteers. Even with that help, however, not all survive.
Turtles are a harmless and important part of the ecosystem. They help keep waterways clean by feeding on dead fish and other carcasses, especially Common Snapping Turtles. They also help control insect and amphibian populations.
Many people may not realize Michigan has two legally protected turtle species found in the region: the Wood Turtle and the Blanding’s Turtle. Wood Turtles are rarely found this far north, but Blanding’s Turtles are relatively common in Roscommon County, where they have a strong population.
People can help protect turtles by watching for them on the road and most importantly, avoid hitting them. If it is safe, move a turtle to the side of the road in the direction it was traveling. Turtles follow strong natural instincts to reach nesting areas, water and food. If they are moved the wrong way, they will often try to cross the road again.
While some turtle species may be legally harvested in Michigan with the proper license for personal use, wild turtles should not be taken as pets. Other species, such as red-eared sliders, map turtles and cooters, are available through reptile specialty stores and pet shops in Michigan and make better pets. Removing a wild turtle from its habitat harms the local breeding population and the ecosystem.
Anyone who finds an injured turtle can contact the A.R.K. at 989-389-3305.
