Hudson Valley Drivers Beware Of These Animals Crossing

A warning has gone out to drivers in the Hudson Valley about being mindful of a popular animal crossing season that is upon us.

The warm weather is upon and before you know it, June will be here. It's almost the best time of year in the Hudson Valley. Warm days, long days, beach days, lake days, laughter everywhere and summer nights are always an excuse to get some ice cream.

One thing we do have to be mindful is one kind of reptile will be more visible and drivers do need to be extra cautious while out.

What warning is being issued in the Hudson Valley for an animal crossing?

According to officials, early June is when turtle nesting activity really peaks in the Hudson Valley.

So, what exactly does that mean for those of us who don't know?

Here's the short version, turtles move across the land to lay their eggs. This also means they can move across the roadways and vehicle strikes are a major cause of turtle deaths in New York State and in the United States. This is not good, thousands of turtles reportedly get killed each year by unsuspecting drivers when they come upon turtle nesting spots.

What should you do if you see on the road?

There are a few simple ways you can help:

• If you a see a turtle on the road and it's safe to help, always cross the turtle in the direction it's going
• Never pick up a turtle by its tail
• Never pick up a turtle if you don't feel comfortable touching it
• If you are comfortable touch it, always hold a turtle by the very back of it's shell and hold as far away from its head as possible

I live in a "wet area" with a lot of land and sadly on a lot of my walks I've seen deceased turtles on the road. I'm going to be more mindful of the turtles when I'm walking and driving down the road this summer.

Lets all take a moment and try to help out the wildlife here.

SEE ALSO: IMAGE: Another Predator Spotted in the Hudson Valley

Do you have any tips about helping turtles in the Hudson Valley? Share them with us on the station app: 

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Since we are talking about nature in the Hudson Vallley, here's are the best wooded areas in the Hudson Valley that would be perfect to film a horror movie in: