The DNR recently acknowledged the work of volunteers across the state who helped turtles get across busy roadways. Volunteers also received permission from local officials to put "turtle crossing" signs in places where the slow-moving creatures cross roads to get to nesting areas.
A biologist with the DNR's Bureau of Natural Heritage, Andrew Badje says they've created a websiteand program designed to get volunteers to go online and report sightings, either as turtle mortality, live crossings, nesting areas, or general sightings. He says that data then is shared with county and town highway offices. He says often times that same area is used by other species to cross roadways.
The website shows where turtles often get hit by vehicles. He says this area has an interest in the project. Wood Turtles are a state threatened species..
"....there's quite a few of them in the Rhinelander area, If volunteers can report those with turtle crossings especially. That helps the (DNR) proactively conserve them better...."
Most turtles breed in the spring, or in August. All Wisconsin turtles lay eggs in upland nests, and turtles crossing roads to get to the nests are often struck by vehicles. Badje says to make sure if you help a turtle, to only do it if it is safe to you and other drivers. For more information visit the Wisconsin Turtle Conservation
