A Special Place in Tilton

Conservation area along the Winnipesaukee River June 2015...

Progress has been slow, but the area is beginning to look better every day.

Same area in 2011...

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Turtle Nesting

Every spring, New Hampshire turtles go from their winter hibernation into an egg-laying mode.
Their nesting season lasts from May until early July. During that time, turtles will travel more than
  a quarter of a mile to reach their nesting site. In Tilton, the newly-reclaimed area along  the Winnipesaukee
   River provides places for turtle nesting. Over the last two years, turtles have been observed laying
    their eggs in several places near the river. The Winnipesaukee River Trail Association has provided a
specific area near the trail for turtles to nest. And, the turtles themselves have decided that they 
like a spot on the Salmon Run Conservation Area. Several signs mark spots one female
was observed laying eggs in mid June. Using this site means that turtles will not have to  cross the road.

New Hampshire has seven native species of turtles. Painted and snapping turtles are relatively common, 
while Blandings, spotted, wood, common musk, and box turtles are becoming imperiled. While turtles live
from 10-50 years, females do not lay eggs until age 15. Then they lay 20-40 eggs in soil banks, sand, or
gravel piles. The eggs have a high risk of being eaten by skunks, raccoons, and blue herons.

For more turtle information:
http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/nongame/turtles.html

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