ALBANY, NY (May 25, 2025) — As turtles nest in May and June, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton urges drivers to “Give Turtles a Brake.” Turtles are often seen crossing roads to find sandy areas or loose soils for egg-laying, but thousands are killed annually by vehicles.
“Our state is home to a wide range of turtle species and today DEC is calling on New Yorkers to do their part to help protect these long-lived species and ‘Give Turtles a Brake,’” said Lefton. “Vehicle strikes are a major cause of turtle mortality this time of year, so DEC is asking drivers to be cautious, be on the lookout, and slow down, especially on roads near rivers and marshy areas.”
Drivers spotting a turtle on the road should slow down to avoid collisions. If safe, they can stop and move the turtle to the shoulder in the direction it was facing. Most turtles, except snapping turtles, can be safely picked up by the sides of their shells with a secure grip to prevent injury from dropping. Snapping turtles, with long necks and strong bites, should be handled by the rear of the shell using both hands or slid onto a mat or blanket and dragged across the road.
DEC advises against taking turtles home, as all native turtles are protected by law and require a DEC permit to keep. New York’s 11 native land turtle species are in decline, and losing even one mature female can harm local populations. Injured turtles should be taken to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. More information on New York’s native turtles is available on DEC’s website.
In recognition of World Turtle Day® on May 23, created by American Tortoise Rescue to protect turtles and their habitats, DEC highlights the threats turtles face from smuggling, the exotic food industry, climate change, habitat loss, and the illegal pet trade. Follow @NYSDEC on social media from late May through early June for more turtle information.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.