Posted: 06.17.2011

Why did the turtle cross the road? In Wisconsin, maybe to lay its eggs on the other side.
State conservation officials are asking drivers to be alert for turtles plodding across roads and highways.

From late May to early June, turtles leave their aquatic habitats in search of drier areas to lay their eggs. That sometimes takes them across roads, where they're vulnerable to traffic.
So wildlife officials are asking motorists to slow down when they're near wetlands this month. You can also help turtles cross the road, if it's safe to do so. Use a stick __ and common sense __if it's a snapping turtle.

Wisconsin is home to 11 species of turtles. Five are listed as threatened, endangered or species of concern.

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