Using Nest Map & Location Pins
Using the Nest Map
We map turtle nesting data across all parks using Google Maps. We recommend that all volunteers install the Google Maps app on their mobile devices, this will give you the best experience navigating the Nest Map (linked on Volunteer Central).
The nest map is only for volunteer use, please do not share this map with people outside of Turtle Protectors.
We use the following labels to help identify nests:
Nest Protector number (NP#): Every nest is given a unique number for the year it was laid. You can usually find a round metal tag hanging from the nest protector mesh screen to help you identify the nest. The Nest Map also displays each nest number. In the event that we run out of numbered tags to use, a nest may remain unnumbered.
Type of Turtle: The Nest Map will display a P for Painted Turtle nest and an S for Snapping Turtle nests. We never share the location of Blanding’s Turtle (Giizis) nests.
Emerged: A nest is labelled as “emerged” once a hole is reported. There is a chance that there are still more hatchlings inside, so these nests need to be monitored. If you see a hole and you are unsure if it’s been reported, you can send a message to the hotline with the tag number, they will know if it’s a new emergence hole or not.
Predated: A nest is labelled as “predated” when it shows signs of animal relative activity such as digging or broken egg shells. This usually means that the eggs have been eaten, and any surviving eggs have been taken to the Toronto Wildlife Centre.
Using Map/Location Pins
We use location pins (also called “map pins” or “dropping a pin”) to help communicate our location, as well as the location of turtle activity in the parks.
How to create a Google Maps pin on mobile:
Open Google Maps: Launch the app on your phone.
Find Location: Pinch the screen or zoom in as close as possible to your specific location.
Create the pin: Tap and hold the spot on the map for 2-3 seconds until it creates the pin.📍
Share the pin: The address or GPS coordinates will appear at the bottom of the screen. You can select options like Directions, Save, or Share.
