by Theresa Nyenhuis

Created on: October 13, 2009   Last Updated: October 14, 2009

Turtles are an ancient reptilian species with a history spanning 215 million years. Found on every continent excluding Antarctica, they are well adapted, but slow to change. Today, three hundred species of turtles exist, but they face many challenges, mainly human in origin.

Human encroachment has resulted in habitat destruction. Death and injuries inflicted by traffic are common. Pollutants in the water have affected turtle health and even their ability to reproduce successfully. Turtles mistake litter, plastic in particular, for food. This can result in a ghastly death by starvation or an impacted digestive system. Even the introduction of non- indigenous species to often brings disease(s) and competition that the native wildlife has limited defences against

Finding a turtle in need is almost all by chance, but a safe rescue requires some preparedness on your part. Contact your local wildlife agency, turtle rescue organization or even head to the library for specific information about the reptiles your area.
Becoming a friend of turtles, you'll quickly realise that most often you will encounter these animals on the road, keeping a rescue kit in the trunk at all times, is a good idea.

The Basic (but not limited to) Turtle Rescue Kit:

The contact information of your local human society, turtle rescue or veterinary clinic that deal with injured and distressed turtles.

Elbow length canvas gloves- Prevents the passing of bacteria, and injuries to your hands. You may have to handle a wild animal and they can bite! I have yet to have even a large snapping turtle snip through a canvas glove.

A blanket, a piece of plywood or strong cardboard- For dragging or transporting a larger turtle. If your fold the blanket into a bag (the turtle in the centre, the four corners drawn together) you can move the turtle in your vehicle for a distance. Be aware that turtles are strong and intrepid; your blanket bag may shimmy and shake powerfully.

A shovel- Some turtles are too large to be moved by hand alone. A shovel can be used to coax a larger turtle into a blanket, on to your piece of plywood, or for lifting your turtle into a box for transportation. Do not move a turtle any distance by carrying with a shovel, even a small drop can be devastating to the shell.

Very Useful Extras:

A plastic storage tote with a resealable, detachable lid. Drill many holes along the sides and top for ventilation. The box is excellent if you must take the turtle to a rescue centre, the lid doubles as

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