DNR asks for help during turtle mating season in Wisconsin

The Wisconsin DNR is asking the public for help during turtle nesting season, which is late May through July, to protect the state’s 11 native turtle species. Female turtles emerge from wetlands to lay eggs, often near roads, making them vulnerable to road mortality and predation. The public can assist by driving cautiously near wet areas, reporting turtle sightings and nest sites to the Wisconsin Turtle Conservation Program, protecting nests, such as by building nest cages, keeping wild turtles in the wild, and donating to the Endangered Resources Fund.

“When turtles are more active during nesting season, they face added risks. Some are run over by vehicles, while others face predation from raccoons, skunks and coyotes. Some protected species are also taken illegally from the wild and sold in the illegal pet trade,” said Andrew Badje, DNR conservation biologist. “Protecting adult females and turtle nests in the wild is essential for conserving Wisconsin turtle populations.”