SOMERS, NY (May 21, 2025) — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is urging drivers to slow down and assist turtles crossing roads as part of its “Give Turtles a Brake” initiative. On June 10, Environmental Conservation Officers (ECOs) Franz and Shuck, while patrolling in Somers, spotted a snapping turtle attempting to cross a busy road near the double yellow lines. The officers safely moved the turtle to the other side, ensuring its safety.
The DEC advises motorists to reduce speed when they see a turtle on the road to avoid collisions. If it is safe, drivers should help the turtle reach the side of the road in the direction it was heading. Snapping turtles, though they may appear aggressive, often avoid confrontation, according to the DEC.
All native turtles in New York are protected by law, and the public is reminded not to take turtles home, as keeping them without a DEC permit is illegal. For more details on the “Give Turtles a Brake” initiative, visit the DEC website at dec.ny.gov.
Turtles Snagged in Illegal Night Hunt on New York Reservoir
Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) issued three tickets to an individual for illegally capturing snapping turtles on the Muscoot Reservoir in Westchester County, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reported.
On May 3, ECO Murphy responded to a call from the Somers Police Department about three individuals in a rowboat shining a spotlight into the woods from the reservoir. Upon arriving, Murphy observed the trio dock their boat after removing a large object at a nearby peninsula. The individuals claimed they were bowfishing for carp, but a check of their equipment and licenses raised suspicions.
Murphy returned to the peninsula and discovered a large cooler, partially hidden under a rowboat, containing three live snapping turtles. One of the individuals admitted to using a spotlight to lure the turtles to the water’s surface before capturing them with a large net. Snapping turtles can only be legally hunted from July 15 to Sept. 30 using a bow or firearm, and the individual who confessed lacked a valid hunting license.
The individual received three tickets for hunting without a license, illegal take of wildlife, and taking game out of season, returnable to Somers Court.
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.