Maroc - MYMUSKOKANOW.COM - A La Une - 19/Aug 14:27

‘Saving Turtles’ protects nest near Gravenhurst construction site

Six turtle hatchlings were safely released on Aug. 13 after they were removed in early June to protect them from nearby construction. [caption id="attachment_137353" align="alignleft" width="300"] The baby turtles were released near where they were found in June (Photo credit: Town of Gravenhurst on Facebook)[/caption] In a post on the town's Facebook page, it explains how Andrew Stacey, director of infrastructure services for the Town of Gravenhurst, was joined by Julie Couture with Saving Turtles At Risk Today (START), based in the Township or Oro-Medonte, to release the turtles near where the nest was found. "If we find any nests and they are at risk due to the construction project, they are safely removed and cared for until the baby turtles are ready for release," the post continues, with it added how hatchlings are often found hidden in the shoulder of roads. It's noted in the town's post that START took care of the babies until they were ready to be released. Ontario Parks explains on its website how, "the silt and gravel on the sides of the road make for great nest conditions because it’s easy to dig and offers full sun to keep the nest warm." It's added that less than two percent of turtle hatchlings survive into adulthood. During last week's council meeting, Gravenhurst's Mayor Heidi Lorenz explained how town staff always inspect areas where construction is scheduled to ensure they won't disrupt the natural habitat. "Let's hope that they make it," she added. The post ‘Saving Turtles’ protects nest near Gravenhurst construction site appeared first on My Muskoka Now.