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News Brief

April 10, 2023Jefferson City, Mo. |  By: Jeremy Werner

MDC asks to drivers to watch out for turtles

turtles

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - The Missouri Department of Conservation is encouraging drivers to be cautious on the roads this spring and give turtles a brake.

These reptiles are often hit by cars during the warmer months, but are at special risk this time of year because they are more active.

Common turtles spotted crossing Missouri roads include three-toed box turtles, ornate box turtles, and snapping turtles.

Turtles emerge from their burrows and begin the hunt for food and mates during warm and wet conditions, which can lead them to cross roadways, oftentimes resulting in their death.

Thousands of box turtles are killed every year by vehicles. Vehicles are one of the leading threats box turtles face in Missouri, and MDC urges motorists to be cautious and slow down if they see a turtle in the road.

If helping a turtle make it safely across, check for traffic and always move the turtle in the direction it is traveling. For more information on Missouri’s turtles, visit nature.mdc.mo.gov.