Brock speaks to excited kids about turtles at last years turtle release | Photo by B. Shakyaver
On May 23rd, conservation enthusiasts and turtle advocates will come together to celebrate World Turtle Day.
In honor of these remarkable creatures, Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority is hosting a workshop where participants can craft their own turtle nest protectors.
Nest protectors are also strategically placed in local conservation areas, which Hope Brock, Healthy Watersheds Technician says ensures the safety of turtle nests from accidental trampling and predation.
Turtles are released at the end of August every year | Photo by B. Shakyaver
Those turtles are then released at the end of August in their much anticipated turtle release, so keep your eyes peeled for that!
Ontario boasts a variety of turtle species, however they species face challenges such as habitat loss and road mortality.
Brock says that snapping turtles get a bit of a bad rap for being aggressive, but she says that it’s not a deserved reputation.
The workshop is coming up this week
The workshop, scheduled for Thursday, offers a hands-on experience in creating wire mesh protectors for turtle nests. These protectors shield nests from predators until hatchlings are ready to emerge – and can be placed on private property to protect turtles that have chosen your yard as their home.
It’s part of an ongoing effort to track turtle species in the area – which Brock says is uniquely suited for certain species.
In the Port Franks area and beyond, residents are encouraged to report turtle sightings through various channels, including the ABCA website and the iNaturalist app.
What better way to celebrate World Turtle Day than by helping to protect local endangered turtle species? You can sign up for the workshop today at abca.ca
Written by: B. Shakyaver
