Wye Marsh Projects

Turtle Research at the Wye Marsh Wildlife Area

The Wye Marsh Stewardship Department began research on the turtles in the Wye Valley in mid May 2004. This research was conducted to determine the population status of Blanding’s Turtles and other turtles within the Wye Marsh.

Blanding’s Turtles are listed as Threatened throughout their range in North America. They are rarely seen, but easily recognizable by their bright yellow chin and domed shell. The females will travel long distances to nest, which unfortunately often results in females of breeding age being killed by cars and unwary drivers.

Most Blanding’s Turtle research has been conducted in Nova Scotia; only a small amount of research has concentrated on the Ontario population, and methods of surveying their numbers vary widely. Although no Blanding’s Turtles were captured during the seven-week study period, a small number were sighted within the marsh before and after the study, confirming both their presence and their rarity. A total of fifteen Snapping Turtles and three Painted Turtles were caught. More males were caught than females, which is interesting as the study took place during the nesting season. Also, two snapping turtles were captured that had yellow metal tags on their shells, evidence from studies done in the past. Each trap was baited with fish, generously donated by Henry’s Restaurant of Midland. Each turtle caught was weighed, inspected for leeches, injuries or deformities, and had their shells measured for length, width and height. Their shells were then marked with temporary paint and they were released back into the marsh.

This study showed that methods for studying and surveying wild Blanding’s Turtle populations are not well known, documented, or standardized. It also showed that little is known about both the Blanding’s and Snapping Turtle’s abundance, habitat requirements, and overwintering habits in the marsh, and therefore is worth further study.

The Wye Marsh received no funding for this research, which significantly affected the scope of the study. Further research into survey methods, uniform trap design and materials, and an increased number of traps and helping hands to monitor more locations would be a valuable asset for future studies. With more help and funding, more turtles can be caught and processed for a more accurate population estimate.

If you have any suggestions, or are interested in helping with this or other studies, feel free to contact the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre.