Root River Diary: How Did the Turtle Cross the Road?

YUCATAN TOWNSHIP, HOUSTON COUNTY — Turtles begin crossing roads in the late spring and early summer, with the peak crossing period typically occurring between May and July.

Female turtles are moving to find suitable nesting sites and males are searching for mates. 

I travel frequently between Rushford and La Crescent, along Highway 16, and through the bottoms often see turtles on the road this time of year. We are all familiar with the sight of crushed turtles on the roadways, so let’s watch out for our little friends on the move.

One day, I saw a snapper – a Big Boy – moving slowly on the tarmac.

I’m a 43-year-old woman who just happens to drive around with a skateboard in her car. So, with the aid of my board, I rolled the big guy across the road. 

I’m not asking that people put their own safety at risk, but by just being a more attentive driver – and having a pair of work gloves in your vehicle to assist a turtle in need – we really could, together, make a difference. 

   — Joyce Roffler

Turtles are busy nesting this time of year near river bottoms and crossing many of our busy roads. (Photo by Joyce Roffler)

Tips For Spring Turtle Encounters:

Slow down and be aware of your surroundings.

If it’s safe to do so, assist the turtle in crossing the road, preferably in the direction it was already headed.

Pick up the turtle gently by the sides of its shell, just behind the front legs.

Carry the turtle to the edge of the road and place it in a safe location, ideally 10-15 yards off the road.

Avoid lifting the turtle by its tail.

Never move a turtle to a different location.

Editor’s note: The US Fish & Wildlife Service has tips for helping turtles cross a road.