SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WPRI) — The Audubon Society of Rhode Island is warning drivers to use caution when driving near freshwater bodies this spring during turtle crossing season.

In May and June, aquatic turtles like the eastern painted turtle and the American snapping turtle will be leaving their habitats in ponds, rivers and wetlands to find drier land to lay their eggs. During this nesting process, turtles often cross busy roadways.

In 2023, the Wildlife Clinic of Rhode Island received 40 turtles that had been hit by cars. The clinic says only 10 of those turtles were rehabilitated.

Audubon is offering road signs to help warn drivers of turtles crossing.

Anyone who lives near a road frequented by turtles and wants to help can email audubon@asri.org . The quantities of signs are limited.

If you see a turtle and would like to help it cross the road, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management says you should hold the turtle with two hands.

Do not pick up a turtle by only its shell and do not grab the animals by the tail. If it’s a snapping turtle, keep your distance and gently shepherd it across the road with a stick.

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