By Kelly Vowels
Bernheim Forest and Arboretum is home to eight species of turtles from the commonly seen eastern red-slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) and box turtle (Terrapene carolina) to the more elusive soft-shell turtle (Apalone spinifera). Turtles are reptiles and appeared in the fossil record more than 200 million years ago.
Though many species live in water they all breathe air and lay eggs on land. There are more than 300 species of turtles in the world with over 50 species found the United States. According to Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife there are 14 species of turtles found in Kentucky with six species of concern. In Kentucky, turtles are threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation, illegal collecting, climate change, predation by urban wildlife, and road mortality.
Environmental Changes Impact Turtles
Smooth softshell turtles have been shown to be vulnerable to climate change, due to more intensive and variable flooding. Flooding events may inundate softshell nests for prolonged periods, and the longer the eggs are submerged the less likely the embryo will survive.
Box turtles, a common turtle, have also shown to be vulnerable to climate change. Shifts in temperature and rainfall patterns could disrupt their nesting and hibernation. Research has shown that an increase in temperature may affect the timing of egg laying, viability of eggs, and temperature-dependent sex determination of offspring.
How You Can Help Protect Turtles
Don’t relocate turtles. One of the most important things you can do to protect turtles is to never relocate them. Moving turtles can disrupt them since they have small live long home territory and if moved, they become disoriented causing stress and can lead to death.
Watch out for turtles crossing the road. In late spring and throughout the summer, turtles start search for food, new territory and mates. If you see a turtle crossing the road and you’re inclined to help, be sure to move it to the side of the road it is facing and no further. Make sure to only stop to help if it’s safe for you. Recognize your surroundings, and be mindful of your safety. Watch out for oncoming traffic.
Also, do not bring wild turtles home. Wild animals belong in the wild. If you see someone collecting turtles at Bernheim please let us know so we can take action to protect them.
Don’t litter – properly dispose of plastics and fishing line. Turtles, fish, waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wildlife can easily get tangled in discarded fishing line and plastic containers. Plastic poses an additional risk to the health of animals and humans. As larger plastic debris breaks down, smaller pieces and microplastics can be ingested.
Bernheim Protects Habitat
Bernheim’s 16,000+ acres protect 73 ponds and wetlands and over 100 miles of streams within our borders, providing habitat for turtles, amphibians, aquatic mammals, birds, and other wildlife. Bernheim is restoring wetlands along Wilson Creek and Harrison Fork which will hold water and organic material, support groundwater recharge, and provide additional habitat. Support from partners, including the James B. Beam Water Sanctuary Alliance, members, and donors help make this work possible, protecting more land for not just turtles but all wildlife, plants, and other living creatures.
