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.
• Behavior: If the turtle is not moving or is in an unusual location (e.g., on a road), it might be in trouble.

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.
• Disorientation: If the turtle is not moving, or if its limbs or head are pointing in the wrong direction.
• Foreign Objects: Garbage, fishing line, or other debris stuck to its body.
• Temperature: If found below 10°C or uncovered during winter, it needs urgent help.
  Unusual Behavior: 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 Behavior: 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, which can bite.
• Use Proper Techniques: Follow the correct methods for moving the turtle to minimize stress and injury

Handling Techniques

• Snapping Turtles: Hold from the back of the shell where the neck cannot reach you. Alternatively, use both hands, one at the back of the shell and the other underneath.
• 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 Nesting Turtles:

For Injured Turtles:

• Containment: Place the turtle in a dark, cool, quiet area with a damp cloth or fabric beneath it. Avoid giving food or water until you have spoken to a rehabilitator.
• Keep the Turtle Calm: Ensure the environment is as stress-free as possible.

For Nesting Turtles:

• After Nesting: If the turtle is injured or in danger, ensure it is kept in a calm environment until help arrives. Turtles may complete a “U-turn” after nesting where they walk out one direction, and turn around after. Please be patient during their process.

Transporting Turtles:

• Driving: If you are transporting the turtle, drive carefully without music playing. 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.

If You Cannot Contain the Turtle:

• Monitoring: Keep a close watch on the turtle. Inform others in the area to avoid disturbing it, and continue to monitor until help arrives.

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