City urges residents to leave snapping turtles alone

The city is asking for its residents’ help to ensure the safety of our snapping turtles.

Early July marks the end of nesting season for Ontario’s freshwater turtles. During nesting season, turtles leave the safety of their aquatic habitats to seek out the best place to lay their eggs.

For many of Hamilton’s snapping turtles, their habitat is located in the pond near Frances Avenue in Stoney Creek. Several of the turtles have chosen nesting sites along the roads in the area.

Road mortality is the greatest threat facing snapping turtles. Currently, snapping turtles are listed as a species of special concern in Ontario. This particular status means that the species may become threatened or endangered in the years to come.

If you see a snapping turtle in the area, only move them if they’re in immediate danger. Upon moving them, be sure to place them in the direction they were already going. Do not bring them to the nearest pond.

It’s important to handle snapping turtles with extra care. With very long necks and the ability to snap at you, be sure to only touch them near the back of their shell. Never pick a turtle up by their tail.

Have you had to help out a turtle in need? Let us know in the comments.

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• Freshwater Turtles
• Hamilton
• Hamilton Wildlife
• HamOnt
• Nesting Turtles
• Ontario Turtles
• Snapping Turtles
• Stoney Creek
• Turtle Crossing