8 things to know if you see turtles crossing the road

If you see a turtle trying to cross the road, DuPage County Forest Preserve District officials suggest that you:

• Never slam on your brakes; gradually slow down. If the safest option is to keep going, try to straddle the turtle if possible.

• If there's plenty of room on the shoulder and you can safely pull over, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

• Make sure you have plenty of time with a big break in traffic before approaching the turtle. Cars approach faster than you think and drivers, especially distracted ones, aren't expecting to see someone in the middle of the road.

• Notice which way the turtle's facing and move it to that side of the road. If you move it to the side it started from, it will only try to cross again later.

• All turtles can bite and scratch and are surprisingly quick, so handle one as little as possible. If it's a snapping turtle, you may want to avoid it altogether. Most turtles will likely retreat into their shells, but a scared snapper will defend itself.

• If you keep a shovel in your car or have a floor mat, gently slip it under the turtle and scoot it across the road. If there's a sturdy branch nearby, you can try to use it to push the animal along.

• If you use your hands, wear gloves and place one hand on either side of the turtle toward the back. Never pick one up by the tail; it's part of the spine and cannot support weight.

• Never move a turtle farther than the side of the road. Turtles are extremely territorial, and taking one to a new habitat - even a better one - can be harmfully disorienting.

Source: DuPage County Forest Preserve District