NORTON MIRROR (Massachusetts) ; Turtle survey continues, assistance ...

NORTON MIRROR (Massachusetts) 16 June 06 Turtle survey continues, assistance requested

The Norton Conservation Commission and Wheaton College will be continuing the survey of turtle migration across Norton roads that took place last summer. The information provided by this survey will be an important resource for the Evaluation of Norton Wildlife and the Wheaton College Fellows program. There are several different species of turtles found within the woods of Norton, including the spotted turtle. While the spotted turtle was just recently removed from the Mass Endangered Species list, it is now listed on the Exemption List. This means that collection, sale and possession of a spotted turtle will still be prohibited. Also, its wetland habitats are still protected under the MA Wetlands Protection Act, and it is still considered to be a Species in Greatest Need of Conservation under the state's Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation strategy.
The majority of the survey will be conducted during June, as this is the month when turtles cross the roads in order to reach their nesting sites. If anyone .notices a turtle attempting to cross the road, do not straddle it with a car or truck. Often times the turtle shell is taller than it appears and the turtle could be injured or dragged by the vehicle. If you are able to pull over and assist a turtle crossing the road, remember to move the turtle to the side of the road in the direction in which it is traveling. It is important to note that caution should be taken if you happen to find a snapping turtle.
Anyone interested in participating .in the migration survey should contact Shea Clarke or Jennifer Carlino at the Conservation Office at 508-285-0275. For each turtle found, the Conservation Commission requests data regarding the species of the turtle, location and direction of the road crossing, and the date and time of day. Additionally, any pictures that are taken of the migrating turtle(s) would be greatly appreciated.
For the identification of each turtle, there are two excellent field guides that are available at most bookstores. "A Field Guide to the Animals of Vernal Pools" by Leo Kenney and Matthew Burne and Peterson Field Guides "Reptiles and Amphibians" by Roger Conant and Joseph Collins provide pictures along with a detailed description of each species of turtle found throughout New England. Thank you for your help and participation in this survey.

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