Document Box Turtle Sightings for HCT

HARWICH – It’s always a thrill when you cross paths with a box turtle.

The Eastern Box Turtle is on the state’s list of rare species. 

This shy creature with orange and yellow starburst patterns has suffered from habitat loss as well as mortality along busy roadways.

In order to better understand the distribution of this unique species in Harwich, we welcome the Harwich Conservation Trust is welcoming the public’s observations. 

If anyone sees an Eastern Box Turtle (alive or dead), take a picture, note the date as well as specific location, fill out, and sign a “Rare Animal Observation Form.”

To print out a form, go to harwichconservationtrust.org. 

The completed form can be sent by email to [email protected] and then the HCT will file it on your behalf with the Commonwealth’s Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program, which documents rare species across the state. 

If anyone needs help filling out the form, HCT’s AmeriCorps member Gerhard Jansen can assist you and she can be reached at the same email address.

The Eastern Box Turtles are most active after a soaking rain this time of year. 

Also, if you see a turtle crossing the road, and only if you can pull over safely, please help it along by picking it up and placing it on the other side in the same direction it is already traveling.

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