Turtle Stewardship in Brantford-Brant

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It is widely known that declining turtle populations are linked to road mortality, habitat loss, and habitat fragmentation. Brant For Nature recognizes this and aims to fill a stewardship gap within the areas of Brantford‐Brant. It is anticipated that this stewardship work will align with the work that is being undertaken in adjacent communities and across the province. 

We have five main areas of focus:

1. Road Mortality

2. Nest Protection

3. Habitat Loss

4. Education

5. Data Collection and Monitoring

Road Mortality

We are slowly building this component.  Working on and around roads is a high-risk activity.  We don't condone working on or near roads without the proper training and personal protective equipment.  It is stressed that human safety comes first before wildlife.  We cannot put anyone in danger or others in danger to save wildlife.  We must find a way to work together and do it safely.  Brant For Nature will be developing training, protocols, and procedures for this activity.  Stay tuned!

Nest Protection

Turtle nests are highly vulnerable to predation by racoons, skunks, and other wildlife. Predators can smell turtles eggs for at least a week after they are laid.  Likewise, when the eggs hatch, an odour is produced and the nest is again vulnerable.  Raccoon populations have benefited greatly from human food sources. While human influenced changes to the environment have created easier access to nesting areas for both turtles and predators. Thus, turtle recruitment is potentially lower than under natural conditions creating a population trend that is declining over time. To help protect vulnerable turtle nests, Brant For Nature uses wooden-framed nest protectors which are easy to use, however, they require inspection and maintenance throughout the season. The nest protector is intended to be in place from spring to fall (depending on when the eggs were laid). If turtles remain in the nest overwinter (such as Painted Turtles), the nest protector can be removed and tagged for observation and/or replaced with a nest protector in spring. Brant For Nature will provide training to ensure the best success for your turtle nests.

Habitat Loss

Habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation are a result of anthropogenic factors whether it's development or the introduction and spread of invasive species. Roads, railways, farms, cities, and towns have had their bearing on wetland loss. Brant For Nature recognizes the importance of wetlands in the ecosystem and understands that Ontario continues to lose wetlands. 

Phragmites australis subsp. australis (Common Reed) has been spreading rapidly in Ontario. This invasive non‐native plant outcompetes native vegetation, reduces nesting habitat, and restricts turtle travel and access to the environment needed for nesting. 

Volunteers can help to identify phragmites colonies and can estimate population sizes in the Brant‐Brantford area by using the EDDMapS app to record invasive species such as Common Reed. The app will help us log and sort data to target areas of concern. This research may be used to seek funding from the Green Shovels Collaborative or the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund. 

Education

Sharing knowledge is a key element of our stewardship plan.  We are constantly learning as we navigate our environment.  Brant For Nature aims to provide opportunities to share knowledge in our Community.  We will also be training volunteers one and one and in groups.  

Data Collection & Monitoring

Citizen science is a valuable part of turtle stewardship.  By training volunteers to collect information, we can use the data to determine where turtles are most vulnerable in Brantford-Brant is very important on directing future stewardship work.  Volunteer opportunities include: Wetland Stewards, Basking Surveys, Road Watching, Nest Protection & Maintenance, and Phragmites Surveying.

We have developed data collection forms to use on a smartphone.  With a little bit of training, you will be ready to contribute to this work.  If you're interested in volunteering, please fill out  this Form, or if you prefer you can send us an email at BrantForTurtles AT gmail.com.