Six Star Magazine Six Star Magazine Fall 2018 | Page 33

S TA R C U S T O M E R
SLOW
AND
STEADY
WINS THE
RACE
STORY BY CYNTHIA ROSE; PHOTOS BY STEVEN KELL
N
ot long ago, while enjoying a lunch out with a friend,
the server brought over our iced teas and asked, “Would
you care for a straw? Or would you prefer to save our turtles
instead?” I was a little taken aback at the disparity between the
two options, but savvy enough to know the socially responsible
choice: “No straw, please — I love turtles.”
Back at home, in front of my computer screen, it didn’t take
long to verify that our little reptile friends are, indeed, not
faring well these days — and errant straws are just part of the
problem. Of the eight species of turtle found in Ontario, all are
considered a “species at risk” and some are now venturing into
the “endangered” category.
The numbers of turtles are tumbling due to habitat loss
or as a result of poaching for the pet trade and illegal food
market. But the biggest factor in their declining population
is mortality from vehicle collisions. Turtles often nest close to
roadways with few barriers; their birth rate is already low and
they are notoriously sluggish. When you consider these three
factors, it becomes clear why the public roads in this province
are so dangerous for our shelled friends.
Fortunately, some kind-hearted individuals and like-minded
organizations are working hard to make a difference — and
a unique partnership between Barrie Subaru and a research
station in Algonquin Provincial Park is a great example.
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