Advocates For the North Shore Water and Environmental Resources
The Blanding’s Turtle
Blanding’s Turtle: The turtle with the sun under its chin; a teacher and a possessor of great knowledge (First Nation peoples). Scientifically known as Emydoidea blandingii. Note the dome shaped shell and yellow chin.
A Species at Risk!
This turtle is a species at risk for extinction. It is listed as threatened in Ontario and endangered in Canada. Research conducted within the township of the North Shore has led to the discovery of a large population of Blanding’s turtles.
A Critical Habitat
The North Shore is a critical habitat for the mating, nesting, basking and overwintering of Blanding’s turtles. The temperature of the water bodies permits hibernation over the long, cold winter months and the outcrops provide an ideal nesting substrate. This wetland complex should be part of the Canadian Recovery Strategy in which the Government of Canada is committed to “maintain the presence of known Blanding’s turtle local populations where they occur” (http://www.registrelep-sararegistry.gc.capage iv)
Please Speak up!
You can help us protect a wetland complex located within the Township of the North Shore. This pristine environment is home to a number of species at risk, including the blanding's turtle, and it needs to be protected!
To advocate for the conservation of this critical habitat, write letters to the local council (twpns@ontera.net), local MP Michael Mantha (mmantha-co@ndp.on.ca), and the Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry (MNRF) Steve Acorn (steve.acorn@ontario.ca).
World Turtle Day is observed on May 23rd of each year!
“The North Shore is a great place to live and to visit, with fresh air, pristine lakes and open spaces.” Mayor of North Shore 2018
The Ideal Habitat
This habitat is ideal for Blanding's turtles. It allows them to forage and warm themselves in the shallow waters while keeping them out of the eyes of predators. If you're ever out canoeing in an area like this, keep an eye out for moving lily pads and you might just see a turtle swimming!
Can you spot the Blanding's turtle hiding in this picture?
