Wood turtles are currently considered a Species At Risk (SAR) because their population is dramatically declining across North America. It is hard to know the exact extent of this species’ population since no formal studies have been done in Atlantic Canada, but based on studies in Ontario and Quebec this species’ population in declining, and New Brunswick and Nova Scotia seem to be their last resort for survival.
With some recent sightings from reliable sources, it is believed that Wood turtles call the Shubenacadie Watershed home. It is the intent of this project to conduct surveys of certain areas where sightings have occurred or habitat conditions are favourable for this animal, in order to begin a population assessment of Wood turtles in the area. This study will not only help with the understanding of Wood turtle populations in Nova Scotia, but it will also help COSEWIC (Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada) with their overall understanding of their global population.