EcoWatch

Turtles on the move

As recent homeowners in Masthope, we took a trip to the Home Depot in Honesdale after Memorial Day weekend. On Long Ridge road (the 2003), we noticed a truck parked off to the side and a man moving around in the left lane, as if looking for something. We slowed down to see if he needed help.

But as we approached, we were astounded to learn that it was a tiny turtle in life-threatening conditions that needed the help. Apparently, the innocent creature was scurrying around on the asphalt when the truck came upon it. The driver was trying to catch it, without much success. As we continued, we watched the man actually get down on all fours in a frantic attempt to shepherd the frightened and remarkably quick little critter to safer pastures, away from crushing tires and back into its natural habitat.

Our fear about the man’s own life was quickly dispelled: an oncoming car slowed down and waited politely to allow the brave guy, seemingly oblivious to traffic in his firm determination to save the turtle from death by tire, to continue his noble task. We subsequently found out that the turtle is a bog turtle, an endangered species.

This mentality is precisely the reason why we moved to Pennsylvania. Applause to you, and thank you, good people!

Marinza Bruineman, Masthope, PA