Reptiles

Do freshwater turtles gather together for the winter in Ontario? And the role of wetlands in stabilizing populations.

December 20, 2021 by TLB

Hibernation is commonly observed in many species of animals, especially those inhabiting Northern regions where there are significant drops in temperature during the winter months. In Ontario, freshwater turtles are ectotherms (their internal temperatures mimic the external temperatures) which make them “unequipped” to directly face the ruthlessness of winter conditions. For this reason, they stow …

Ecopassages – the reason why the turtle didn’t cross the road!

December 14, 2021 by TLB

As humans continue to build infrastructure through natural landscapes and wetlands, negative impacts on biodiversity increase. Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth seen in the many different plants and animals. With development, habitat removal and fragmentation, and other huge environmental changes we are experiencing a rapid drop in species numbers and population …

Our first turtle underpass jump-out fencing as been installed!

November 25, 2021 by TLB

Road shoulders are very attractive nesting sites for turtles because they have the perfect mixture of sand/gravel for turtles to lay eggs while also providing excellent sun exposure. This, in combination with the fact that turtles have territories with multiple habitat sites that are kilometers large, means that turtles (in particular blanding’s, snapping and painted …

Have You Seen the Drama Queen of The Land Between?

May 31, 2021 by TLB

Did you know that snakes play an important role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem? They help control rodent populations and also provide food for other predators. The snake gets a pretty bad rep. Most people think they are scary and dangerous. Here, at the Land between charity, we want to break these stereotypes because snakes …

Saving Grace – In Haliburton and Central TLB

April 23, 2021 by TLB

Grace, is an ancient snapping turtle, whose hibernation site is near the Haliburton Highlands Secondary School and feeding grounds extend across 2 lakes at over 40km radius and across busy roads including Highway 118 in Haliburton County. Grace is likely over 125 years old judging by her carapace (upper shell) size, and could be as …

It Takes 60 Years to Replace Just One…

March 24, 2021 by TLB

We are seeking turtle-monitors for summer 2021 and here is why… It can take up to 60 years for one turtle to be replaced in nature. Turtles are keystone species that support entire ecosystems- and also the fish and wildlife within them. Turtles cannot be relocated to new areas to repopulate areas as they imprint …

Creating a Sustainable Turtle Tunnel

November 3, 2020 by Sir Sandford College

When it comes to turtles, road mortality is the leading cause of population decline (second to poaching for the pet trade). To stop the decline of turtle populations The Land Between charity aims to install as many turtle tunnels as possible across the region’s high risk roads – and as quickly as possible. Turtle tunnels are essentially …