Wildlife

Aquatic Turtle Road Mortality

Road mortality is a significant threat to freshwater turtle populations, with females especially vulnerable during nesting movements.

Key Facts

Female turtles travel significant distances to reach nesting sites, crossing roads en route
Turtles are slow-moving and have a low tolerance for vehicle collision
Some populations have lost up to 50% of adult females to road mortality
Turtle crossing signs, road tunnels and fencing have proven effective in reducing mortality

Welfare Considerations

Turtles struck by vehicles experience traumatic injuries that are often fatal but sometimes leave animals severely injured and dying slowly. As long-lived species that mature late and produce few offspring, each adult female lost to road mortality has disproportionate population impact. The welfare of individuals and the recovery of populations are aligned — both require reducing road mortality.

What You Can Do

Help turtles cross roads safely — carry them in their direction of travel
Slow down near aquatic habitat especially in spring
Support road mitigation projects for turtle populations
Advocate for wildlife crossing structures on roads near turtle habitat