Watch Out For Turtles Crossing The Road: Lake Co. Officials

LAKE COUNTY, IL — Lake County Forest Preserve officials are asking drivers to be on the lookout for turtles crossing the road in the coming weeks. In late May and early June, turtles leave their aquatic habitat near lakes, wetlands and streams and head to drier areas to lay eggs.

The turtles often cross roads and can make return trips during the summer and fall as hatchlings emerge, according to a post on the Lake County Forest Preserve District Facebook page.

Drivers are urged to use caution when near wetlands. And, if they can safely do so, they should brake for turtles that are crossing the roads.

Lake County Forest Preserve officials say those who try to move a turtle should lift it with both hands by the middle or back of its shell and place it on the side of the road that it was headed toward. You can also use a stick, broom or a similar object to gently nudge the turtle to the side of the road.

Forest preserve officials are reminding residents to never put their hands near a turtle's mouth since some species, such as snapping turtles and soft-shell turtles, have powerful bites.