Signs Urge Motorists To Watch For Turtle Crossings In Manahawkin

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — With diamondback terrapin nesting season underway, signs are popping up around Manahawkin urging drivers to “Hit The Brakes For Turtle's Sake” in marsh areas.

The Marine Academy of Technology & Environmental Science's Project Terrapin ran a contest with the Stafford Township Green Team in April for artwork to print on turtle crossing signs.

The winning design by Nicole Kalooky is featured on 100 lawn signs throughout Manahawkin in areas where female diamondback terrapins cross roadways to lay their eggs.

Other finalists in the contest can be found on Project Terrapin’s website.

Terrapins thrive in coastal marsh areas and adult females typically nest from May through July, according to Project Terrapin.

They reside throughout Manahawkin Bay, in lagoons of Beach Haven West, and along many roadways including Cedar Run Dock Road, Mill Creek Road and Newell Avenue.

Terrapins can appear in many different shapes and sizes, though the shells of hatchlings are about the size of a quarter. Read more: Hundreds Of Baby Turtles Rescued From Ocean City Storm Drains

Project Terrapin is working on conservation projects throughout Stafford Township, and has partnered with schools in New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania to promote diamondback terrapin research, conservation and education.

More information about Project Terrapin can be found here.

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