We've seen more turtles in Greensboro this summer than we have in recent years- mostly, when they were crossing the road. We found the above turtle quite a while back, but were reminded of it when we saw a man stop right in the middle of Liberty Road to "relocate" a turtle. Such a tender moment out of a burly man in a big truck on a rural road.
If a turtle is in danger of getting hit only consider helping it if you are in a position to stop your vehicle without being at risk of causing an accident. Save human lives first; turtles second. It is wise just scoot them off the road in the direction they are traveling. They know where they are going! They have an instinctive homing ability and usually spend their whole lives in a 2-4 acre range (reference). Also, if you do touch them, wash your hands immediately as they have been known to carry salmonella.
Here is a great web page outlining the turtles of North Carolina and their habitat.
Speaking of Liberty Road, we'll be heading down to Liberty this weekend to enjoy the Liberty Antiques Festival- one of the finest events of its kind in the southeast. Head on down if you get a chance. Oh, and do watch out for critters in the road.
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