Share your turtle sightings and help MPRB gather information at bit.ly/ReportATurtle
With help from the public, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is identifying where and when turtles are seen on land in Minneapolis. This valuable information will guide efforts to protect them at critical locations.
Last year, the MPRB received almost 200 reports of turtle sightings (including dead turtles), greatly increasing what is known about this animal in Minneapolis parks. The reports also indicate how much is not yet known.
Why report?
Turtles are vulnerable on land, especially when crossing roads and bike paths.
They may be on the move throughout the season, but In April, May and June, adults leave the water to find suitable nesting spots on land.
Snapping and painted turtles, the most common species in Minneapolis, cross roads and paths as they migrate some distance to nest; softshell turtles nest close to water.
Later in the summer and into fall, baby turtles hatch and leave their nests to head to water.
How you can help
When driving or biking near lakes, creeks and rivers, please slow down and keep an eye out for turtles. Most adult turtles are killed by cars!
You can also:
- Spread the word by sharing this email with Minneapolis residents.
- Report turtle sightings (including dead turtles) at bit.ly/ReportATurtle.
- If you see an injured turtle, report details at bit.ly/ReportATurtle and take the turtle directly to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota.
- Leave healthy turtles where you see them – unless they need help crossing a road. In that case, read the cartoon below for tips!
