DuPage Co. wildlife officials warn drivers to slow down and brake for turtles during their breeding season

CHICAGO (SCS) — The DuPage County Forest Preserve District is warning drivers that it’s turtle mating season.

This means there are more on the road, especially from mid-May to mid-July, as turtles move to and from nesting sites.

Reptile experts say cars are a real danger because turtles can’t move fast enough to get out of the way and those hard shells are no match for cars.

A wildlife specialist said the roads near ponds and lakes are great crossing points and offered suggestions for moving a turtle to safety, including having a towel in the car to place the reptiles in, then dragging her to a safer place by the side of the road. .

It is easier to spot turtles if you leave an appropriate distance between cars and do not endanger other drivers by stopping suddenly.