Dupage Policy Journal

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has issued a reminder for motorists to be cautious of turtles on the roads as these reptiles become more active in the spring. From April through October, streets near lakes, ponds, and marshes can often see turtles crossing in search of water, food, and mates. Female turtles are particularly mobile from mid-May to mid-July as they seek nesting sites.

“Turtles aren’t able to move quickly to avoid cars, so it’s up to drivers to avoid hitting them,” said District ecologist Dan Thompson. “Car horns and flashing lights have no effect on turtles; they simply can’t move any faster to get out of the way.”

Motorists are advised to adhere to basic road safety rules such as focusing on driving, following speed limits, and avoiding tailgating. It is also recommended that drivers do not stop abruptly on busy roads.

Despite their hard shells, turtles have little protection against injuries from vehicles. The loss of an adult turtle significantly impacts the overall population. For instance, a 30-year-old state-endangered female Blanding’s turtle can lay numerous eggs each year and live up to 70 or 80 years. Losing one such female would mean losing the potential 500 or more hatchlings she could produce in her remaining life. Hatchlings face low survival rates and those that do survive take 14 to 20 years to reach sexual maturity. Consequently, at least 90% of adult Blanding’s turtles must survive each year just to sustain the population.

Anyone who finds an injured turtle should contact the Forest Preserve District’s Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn for care and medical treatment of injured, orphaned, and sick native wild animals. The animal admittance area operates daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., but individuals are asked to call 630-942-6200 before visiting.

DuPage County hosts various native turtle species including musk, snapping, eastern spiny softshell, common map, painted, and Blanding’s turtles.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has been fostering connections between people and nature for over a century. More than 5.5 million people visit its forest preserves annually which encompass over 60 locations with trails spanning 166 miles along with seven education centers and numerous programs. For further information, call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org where links to the District’s e-newsletter and social media pages can be found.