Spring 2026: Volunteering with Grey Sauble Turtle Conservation
This spring I began volunteering with the Grey Sauble Turtle conservation group in Grey County. My role is to locate nesting turtles, record observations for research, and install nest-protector screens over the eggs. These protections help reduce predation, prevent compaction from passing vehicles, and encourage hatchlings to head toward the ditch instead of the road — giving many a much better chance of survival.
What I’ve noticed so far
- Nesting activity tends to peak on warm, wet evenings.
- On stretches of road where new erosion-control technology has been installed, turtles struggle to dig through gravel and tar to reach sand — it’s heartbreaking to watch them try.
- Predators clearly take advantage of nesting sites; it’s not just human eyes watching.
- Properly placed 2 ft × 2 ft frames with a screen and spikes work well when positioned carefully, protecting eggs without blocking hatchling exit routes.
How you can help
- Volunteer as a nest spotter and observer — more eyes mean more nests found and protected.
- Help build nest-protector frames; there’s a consistent need for more of them.
For more information on volunteering opportunities and how to get or build frames, visit Grey Sauble Conservation’s website or contact their volunteer coordinator.
https://www.greysauble.on.ca/turtle-stewardship-program/
Contact the Program Coordinator:
Chelsea Vieira: education@greysauble.on.ca
If you find an injured turtle, please contact the
Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre: 705-741-5000
or the
S.T.A.R.T Hotline: 705-955-4284