Turtles are dying at an alarming rate after attempting to cross the road and being hit by motorists, according to Karen Testa, founder, Turtle Rescue of the Hamptons. In an effort to decrease the number of turtle fatalities, the Brookhaven Highway Department has partnered with Testa to identify and install Wildlife Crossing signs at several locations across Brookhaven Town.
This spring, 36 turtles were killed in one week after being hit by cars, Testa said. “Turtles are just waking up from six months of hibernation,” she said, noting many cross roadways to lay their eggs in the same spot year after year, usually near wetlands. “We share the roadway with them. People need to slow down and respect wildlife.” The installation of the turtle crossing signs is intended “to make people aware that this time of year turtles are on the move.”
“We have an obligation to protect all wildlife residing within the Town’s boundaries,” said Brookhaven Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro. “If we can do anything to minimize or reduce the number of mortalities in Brookhaven Town, we’re happy to do so.”
Turtle crossing signs were installed at the following locations within Brookhaven Town: Longwood Road, just west of William Floyd Parkway; Smith Road, north of Longwood Road; Miller Place - Yaphank Road, near the roundabout; and Dam Road and S River Road, Calverton.
CREDIT: Town of Brookhaven