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How to Participate in the Survey?
Participation in the survey is open to anyone who observes a box turtle in Arkansas. While box turtles are relatively harmless, we discourage participants from picking up specimens and certainly do not want any turtles removed from the wild as part of the survey. Just tell us when and where you’ve seen a turtle. Also, do not worry about trying to differentiate between Ornate and Three-toed Box Turtles. Since the most reliable method for telling them apart involves picking them up (see Box Turtle Basics), in most cases it is better to leave the turtle alone. If you have a special reason to think you have found an Ornate, note that on your survey form, take a picture, or contact us for more information on box turtles.
Observations can either be submitted online (Submit Observations Online) or on paper (Box Turtle Data Sheet) and mailed to our offices. The survey form will ask you to include as much information as possible about the site where you saw the turtle. If your observation involves a turtle crossing the road, an identifying name, number, mile marker or distance from a landmark will be helpful.
Reports of dead turtles on roads are just as important as those found alive. Box turtles found dead along roads can provide very useful information about the impact of road mortality.
There is no limit on the number of turtle sightings you can report and any turtle photos would be great too. If you have a GPS unit, you can also provide the site's coordinates (preferably in decimal degrees).
If you find a sick or injured turtle, make note of the location the turtle was found, and call Wild Child Alliance at 501.912.0498 or the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission at 1.800.482.8845 or 1.800.482.9262. Either organization will put you in contact with a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. If it is safe to do so, (no chance of turtle getting re-injured, not a high traffic area, etc.) the turtle will be returned to the general vicinity after treatment and rehabilitation, so please note the location.
The Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission assumes no responsibility or liability for any injuries sustained by individuals participating in this survey.
