The three turtles recaptured this year are actually older than most of the scientists studying them. Gibbons says, The important feature of the study is that the Sheriff's Marsh habitat is one where turtle populations are thriving, compared to many populations of Blanding's turtle in other states and other parts of Michigan. What we are attempting to do is identify those environmental characteristics that make this such a healthy population of turtles. Among the most critical appear to be a landscape in which a variety of wetlands and nesting areas can be reached by turtles without their having to cross busy highways, as well as a local community that has a high respect for wildlife. The capture of a juvenile underscores the apparent health of this population of Blanding s turtles, according to Gibbons.
Freshwater turtles are ideal indicators of environmental health.
If Blanding's turtles are doing well, we can feel confident that both the aquatic and terrestrial habitats are in good shape. He said the project was made possible by the citizens who contributed to the Nongame Wildlife Fund on the Michigan income tax form or by a direct donation to the Fund.