The next turtle you see on the road may need your help. Here’s what to do.

BANGOR DAILY NEWS • June 15, 2026

In late May or early June, our local freshwater turtles embark on a mass exodus from their wetlands. They leave their watery homes to make the journey to a warm, dry spot to lay their eggs, then return home. Our native turtles travel up to a mile to nest, and that means crossing roads full of cars, yards full of people and dogs, and even construction sites full of heavy equipment. In two or three months, when the eggs hatch and the young emerge from their underground nests, they must make their way back to the water on their own. What can you do to help turtles crossing roads? Stop if it’s safe and help the turtle get to the side they’re headed towards. Put your flashers on and try to motion to let the next driver know why you pulled over. ~ Pamela Meier, The Turtle’s Back, Inc.