📰 Spring Migration Puts Quebec’s Turtles in Danger — But Volunteers Are Stepping Up to Save Them

As spring settles across Quebec and temperatures rise, an ancient seasonal rhythm is underway—turtles are waking from hibernation and beginning their slow journeys across the landscape in search of food, mates, and nesting sites. But their path to survival is anything but easy.

These slow-moving reptiles, already vulnerable due to habitat loss and environmental change, face one of their greatest threats during spring: roads. Every year, numerous turtles are killed or injured by vehicles as they attempt to cross highways and country roads.

That’s where two vital conservation programs come in—*Carapace* and *Taxi Carapace*—helping ensure Quebec’s native turtle populations not only survive, but thrive.

### Carapace: Citizens on the Frontlines of Conservation

The **Carapace Project**, launched by Conservation de la nature Canada (Nature Conservancy of Canada), relies on public participation to track turtle movements across the province. Citizens are encouraged to report sightings of turtles—whether alive, injured, or deceased—through a quick online form at [carapace.ca](https://www.carapace.ca). These observations help conservationists gather critical data on turtle habitats, migratory routes, and high-risk road crossings.

“This kind of data is essential for long-term planning,” said a spokesperson from the Nature Conservancy. “It helps us advocate for wildlife corridors, protective measures, and better urban planning that considers local biodiversity.”

### Taxi Carapace: A Volunteer Lifeline for Injured Turtles

When turtles are injured, time is of the essence. That’s where **Taxi Carapace** comes in. This volunteer-run network operates much like a ride-sharing service—except the passengers are often critically injured turtles being transported to the *Centre de réhabilitation des tortues du Québec* (CRTQ) in Laval.

Located at the *Exploration Centre* in the Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, the CRTQ specializes in treating and rehabilitating injured turtles. Once the turtles have recovered, volunteers from the Taxi Carapace program return them safely to their natural habitats, ensuring their reintroduction is as stress-free and successful as possible.

How You Can Help

* **Spot a turtle?** Report it at [carapace.ca](https://www.carapace.ca), unless the animal is visibly injured or in danger.

* **See a turtle in distress?** Stay nearby and call the CRTQ directly for instructions.

* **Want to volunteer?** The Taxi Carapace team is always looking for reliable drivers with a love for wildlife.

Every turtle saved helps protect Quebec’s rich biodiversity. Whether you're behind the wheel or behind the screen, your help matters.

For more information, visit [carapace.ca](https://www.carapace.ca) or follow CRTQ and Éco-Nature on social media.