Helping sick or injured turtles

Turtles are “cold blooded” (ectothermic), so they need the heat of the sun to get their bodies warm. Normally, they are often seen sunning themselves in warm abd open spots. If you notice any of these signs, they might need help:

  • Obvious wounds or blood on the body, or a crack in its shell
  • One or more of its legs, or head look like they’re pointing in the wrong direction
  • There are string, fishing line, or fish hooks/lures on some part of their body
  • Found when the daytime temperature is below 10°C, or has accidentally been dug up or uncovered during the winter
  • It has been in the same spot for several hours and does not move away when approached (except in June/July when they are nesting)

The next step is to contact a wildlife rehabilitator at Toronto Wildlife Center. This page has information on how to get assistance inside and outside the GTA. It also gives information for temporary assistance while you wait. They are available from 9 am to 6 pm every day of the week including holidays!

In their website, you can also find information about how to help other animals.


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