Alert: Officials Warn Michigan Drivers To Look Out For Turtles

There are a lot of things to watch for when driving in Michigan. From potholes and construction, to sinkholes and deer. But Michigan officials want to make sure you are aware of another form of wildlife that may be in the road.

Officials Warn Michiganders To Watch For Migrating Turtles

Believe it or not, in parts of the state you can still go skiing. But in general temperatures are finally starting to warm up across Michigan. In fact, some places will reach above 80 this week.

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This allows for wildlife to begin migrating, and that includes turtles. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is urging Michiganders to avoid hitting our shelled friends as they begin looking for places to nest near streams, rivers and lakes.

Why Michigan's Turtles Need To Be Protected

Many animal species with large Michigan populations like deer and walleye can sustain adult mortality rates from hunting, fishing and road impacts. But the slow-moving turtles in Michigan are at risk and easy targets for other animals like raccoons, skunks, fish or birds.

READ MORE: Hit One Of These Animals In Michigan? You Have To Report It

On top of that, Scott Heintzelman who serves as a Fisheries Biologist as well as the Central Lake Michigan Unit manager for the Michigan DNR, said that 'It is particularly sad to see or hear about turtles that have been intentionally hit on the road.'

It's unfathomable to think that people are targeting these innocent reptiles, but apparently it's gotten to the point where they have ruled out accidental hits in many cases prompting their plea.