Turtle News

Turtle News

Arkansans asked to help count turtles 2007.04.23, 5:15 PM ET On slow summer days, counting box turtles is one way to enjoy the outdoors. The Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission is asking Arkansans to help with a survey of the animals to determine just how common, or rare, they are. There has never been a statewide survey of box turtles. Maryland scientists in 2004 determined that the eastern box turtle populations were declining, and they blamed habitat destruction, road deaths and mowers and other land-clearing machinery among the causes. The animals also once were exported extensively as pets, a trade that was banned in 1994. Starting in May, the Arkansas commission is asking anyone spotting the reptiles in their yards or elsewhere to report their findings online or by calling the commission. more >> (cached) Recent News Turtle race being tracked on the Web 2007.04.15, 11:22 PM ET Biologists will switch on satellite trackers strapped to the backs of 11 female leatherback turtles on Monday, starting what conservationists have dubbed the "Great Turtle Race" to raise awareness of a species threatened with extinction. Sponsored by U.S. and Costa Rican environmental groups and businesses, the race will track the turtles on their annual 1,200 mile journey from Costa Rica's Pacific coast to the Galapagos Islands. more >> (cached) greatturtlerace.org

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