Turtles

Observe:

Examine the turtle closely to determine if it is in need of help. Look for signs of injury or distress. If the turtle is on a road, assess if it has been hit by a vehicle or attacked by a pet. Turtles can often withstand significant injuries but may still require assistance if they are injured.

Identify:

Determine whether the turtle’s situation requires human intervention. Factors to consider:

• Injuries: Even if a turtle appears to have minor injuries, they might need medical care.
• Behaviour: If the turtle is not moving or is in an unusual location (e.g., on a road, or is out in the winter), it might need assistance.

Signs the turtle needs medical attention:

• Shell Damage: Visible cracks, missing pieces, or other damage to the carapace (shell)
• Injuries: Obvious wounds, blood, or trauma
• Foreign Objects: Garbage, fishing line, or other debris stuck to its body or in its mouth
• Temperature: If found below 10°C or uncovered during winter, it needs urgent help
• Unusual Behaviour: The turtle is not moving away when approached or has been in the same spot for several hours

Signs the turtle may NOT need medical help:

• Nesting Behaviour: If the turtle is nesting, it may just need time to complete this process. Monitor from a distance.

General Safety Tips:

• Avoid Further Injury: Be as gentle as possible when handling the turtle to avoid causing more harm.
• Protect Yourself: Wear gloves or use a towel to handle the turtle, especially if it is a snapping turtle.
• Use Proper Techniques: Follow the correct methods for moving the turtle to minimize stress and injury.

Handling Techniques

• Snapping Turtles: When moving a snapping turtle, lift with both hands from the back portion of the shell where the neck cannot reach. Alternatively, place one hand underneath and the other holding the back of its shell.
• Other Turtles: Carry from the middle of the shell, but be cautious as they might be squirmy.

Option 1: Carrying the Turtle

• Snapping Turtles: Hold with both hands from the back of the shell, ensuring the neck is out of reach. You can also “wheelbarrow” the turtle across the road.
• Other Turtles: Hold from the middle of the shell. Be prepared for some movement.

Option 2: Using a Mat or Blanket

• Alternative Method: If you are uncomfortable carrying the turtle directly, use a car mat or blanket to support and move the turtle.

Helping Nesting Turtles:

• Observe from a Distance: Maintain at least a six-foot distance to avoid disturbing the turtle. Allow her to find a suitable nesting spot and lay her eggs.
• Ensure Safety: If she is on a road, ensure she completes nesting safely and then help her back to her wetland if possible. Turtles sometimes complete a “U-turn” after nesting, please be patient during this process.
• Protect the Eggs: Once she has left, consider placing a nest cover if you have permission from the property owner. This can protect the eggs from predators.

Helping Injured Turtles:

For Injured Turtles:

• Containment: Place the turtle in a dark, cool, quiet area with a damp cloth or fabric beneath it. Do not give it food or water.
• Keep the Turtle Calm: Ensure the environment is as stress-free as possible.

For Turtles Bearing Eggs: If you locate a deceased turtle in the spring, there is a chance it may be bearing eggs. Please contact a wildlife rehabilitator to recover the eggs, which can still survive even if the mother does not.

Transporting Turtles:

• Driving: If you are transporting the turtle, drive carefully without music playing, use low voices, and do not smoke. Ensure the vehicle is cool and the turtle is secure.
• Arrangements: If you cannot transport the turtle yourself, contact Turtle Pond Wildlife Centre for assistance in arranging a ride.

REMEMBER: Your safety is the most important part of a rescue. Only assist an animal if you are comfortable.