Preserving & Enhancing Ecosystems

Western Painted Turtle

The Western painted turtle is a common fresh-water turtle found in North America, however their population on the Sunshine Coast and throughout British Columbia is unique. They are the only remaining native pond turtle in BC, and their populations are threatened by increasing development and infrastructure in their preferred habitats. In conjunction with the Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project we have been working to monitor local populations of the Western painted turtle, as well as takes steps to mitigate the effects of humans on their habitat. As you are driving along the Sunshine Coast Highway, you may spot some recent additions to the roadsides – “Turtle Crossing” signs have been erected at spots where turtles crossing the highway are a common occurrence – one that often leads to fatalities of turtles looking for a good nest site. Some sensitive areas on beaches have also been roped off so that the turtles and their nests may live undisturbed by both humans and their pets.