Assessment of Road Mortality in the Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)

Abstract

The Spotted Turtle (Clemmy guttata), a small freshwater turtle species, prefer shallow wetland habitats, and are restricted to eastern North America, predominantly in southern Ontario along the southern shores of the Great Lakes. However, the Spotted Turtle has been classified as ‘vulnerable’ (a species of special concern) by COSEWIC since 1991, owing to the 35% decline of the population throughout the past century. This is primarily of concern regarding reductions of ecosystem biodiversity, and further anthropogenic pressures will drive the species towards further endangerment. High rates of road mortality are considered a key actor in facilitating a decline in the Spotted Turtle population. A study by Ashley and Robinson (1996) found that approximately 25% of annual Spotted Turtle deaths are a direct result of roadway incidents, around the Long Point Causeway, bordering Lake Erie. By utilizing data from Long Point, the extent of road mortality of the Spotted Turtle will be characterized by analyzing the proportions of deaths in high-density versus low-density roadways. There is varied response to the effectiveness of various solutions to minimize road mortality, including a vegetation management approach boarding roadways, subterranean passages, barriers along roadsides, and influencing and informing in decision-making processes. With the Sandy Pines Wildlife Center, Napanee, reductions in roadway mortality rates will decline along the 401 by increasing both public and private sector awareness regarding the issue of Spotted Turtle road mortality. Recommendations to communities and government entities will be made to facilitate the improvement of the status of Spotted Turtle.