Native Turtles in Ontario Need Our Help!

Ontario is home to eight native freshwater turtle species: the Blanding’s, Eastern Musk, Midland Painted, Northern Map, Snapping, Spiny Softshell, Spotted, and Wood turtles. Due to habitat loss and road mortality, every native species in Canada is listed as a species at risk. Turtles are the most vulnerable species across Canada. Turtles need our help!

Learn more about our eight native freshwater turtle species from our partner, Ontario Nature.

How Can You Help Our Native Turtles?

The Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre operates a turtle hospital that treats, rehabilitates and releases injured turtles, alongside conservation initiatives, and comprehensive education and outreach programs.

An injured turtle needs medical attention as soon as possible!

CALL THE ONTARIO TURTLE CONSERVATION CENTRE IMMEDIATELY at 705-741-5000, option 9

Learn more from the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre about how you can help:

  • An injured turtle

  • Turtle eggs accidentally disturbed

  • A recently deceased turtle

  • A non-injured turtle in the middle of a road

  • A nesting female or turtle nest

Check out Help the Turtles and scroll down to view a video of “How to safely move a turtle across the road” from the Canadian Wildlife Federation.