Some turtles are killed for their shells and meat; others are victims of wildlife trafficking, the pet trade, accidental capture in fishing nets and habitat destruction.
You might be tempted to help a turtle cross the road, far from the dangers of traffic, but turtles don’t adapt well to new places and they’ll likely be killed trying to return to their home. If you can safely assist, just gently carry them across the road in the same direction they were headed.
What’s the difference between a turtle, a tortoise and a terrapin? The distinctions are a bit blurry and terminology can depend on where you live. They all belong to the scientific order of turtles—in the U.S., a tortoise typically refers to a turtle who lives on land in hot, dry regions while terrapins are turtles who live primarily in fresh or brackish water.
No matter how big or small your outdoor space, you can create a haven for local wildlife. By providing basic needs like water, food and shelter, you can make a difference in your own backyard.
