Is It Just Me, or Are Turtles Absolutely Everywhere in Maine Right Now?

Okay, hear me out, I don't know if it's my social media algorithm, the universe, or some secret turtle society, but I feel like turtles are suddenly everywhere. 

Every time I open Facebook, someone has posted a photo of a turtle crossing a road.

A friend spots one in their yard. Another person is helping one across a parking lot. At this point, it feels less like wildlife season and more like a full-scale turtle takeover. 

The good news? Maine is not actually experiencing a turtle invasion. 

According to Restore, we're seeing peak nesting season. Any maybe the reason why we think we are seeing more is because everyone is taking pictures of them and sharing with us! 

Between late May and early July, female turtles leave ponds, wetlands, and marshes to search for sunny, sandy places to lay their eggs. That means painted turtles, snapping turtles, wood turtles, and even the occasional threatened Blanding's turtle are suddenly much more visible than usual. 

Why Are There Turtles Everywhere in Maine Right Now?

Unfortunately, that also means they're crossing roads, which can be dangerous for both turtles and drivers. 

The folks at Maine Fish and Wildlife have posted an IG video with some fantastic tips on what to do during turtle season below.

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If you see a turtle trying to cross the road and it's safe to help, move it in the direction it was already heading.

Wildlife experts also say if you bring it back where it came from, it'll likely just turn around and try again, so let it go on it's own way. 

But if you do want to know which turtle is invading, keep an eye out for the invasive red-eared slider.

These pet turtles are sometimes released into the wild, where they compete with native species for food and habitat. 

So while it may feel like turtles have launched a coordinated campaign to take over Maine this summer, the reality is much simpler. 

They're just trying to start families. 

And honestly, watching a determined turtle march across a road like it has somewhere very important to be is one of the most Maine things you'll see all season.