Protecting Terrapins in Little Egg Harbor
by Ben Wurst, Habitat Program Manager
On April 17th, volunteers helped install 4,000 feet of barrier fencing along Great Bay Blvd. to prevent Northern diamondback terrapins from being struck by motor vehicles. This initiative is similar to those found along other coastal roads in southern New Jersey in Margate, Ocean City, and Stone Harbor.
Terrapin conservation is new to Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ. It was easy to establish a need for the conservation work. Terrapins are listed as a Species of Special Concern in New Jersey. Several scientific studies have documented the threat of motor vehicles to terrapins and their impact on the local population. And it is heart-wrenching to see a large female terrapin that was struck by a motor vehicle.
Terrapins begin nesting activities in mid-late May. In the coming weeks we will be installing more “Terrapin Xing” signs along the road with help from Little Egg Harbor Township. A brochure is in the works and will be finished soon.