ALLENWOOD — Today is World Turtle Day, and what better place to find a lot of turtles than at Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland?
The Allenwood zoo cares for several species of turtle native to Pennsylvania, including the painted turtle, as well as the box and wood turtles, both of which are protected species.
The little known World Turtle Day was initiated in 2000 by the American Tortoise Rescue in Malibu, Calif., and brings attention to turtle conservation issues.
Beyond the common Pennsylvania species, Reptiland counts among its residents seven giant tortoises, five Galapagos and two Aldabra.
According to zoological manager Jeff Cook, Pennsylvania’s turtle population is in relatively good shape and able to survive in fairly healthy waterways, ponds and lakes.
It is the zoo’s several Asian species, like the delicate snake-necked turtle, of Indonesia, or the yellow-footed tortoise, of South America, which are becoming more scarce due to being hunted for food, the pet trade or loss of habitat.
Cook said there are some things we can do to make sure the Valley turtle population remains healthy, including slowing down on rural roadways where turtles may be crossing and being vigilant about what we allow to stream into our storm drains, even when washing cars.
“Just enjoy them,” Cook said. “They play an important role.”
