Don't give that turtle a ride
Of the thirteen species of Pennsylvania turtles, the eastern box turtle is the most terrestrial (living on land) and spends little if any time in the water. The box turtle is also our slowest turtle and unlike the others, does not scamper into water to escape danger. This meek animal simply draws its head, legs and tail into its shell and raises the two bottom plates of its shell tight against the top portion of the shell.
Historically this long-lived reptile was a common species nearly everywhere in the state, but now it appears to be declining in some locales, likely due to loss of habitat and the fragmentation of it's habitat by roads and other development.
But conservationists believe there is another reason, too. Turtles are regularly picked up and moved from their homelands by hikers or well-intending travelers along our highways. Box turtles are believed to live their entire half-century (or more) lives within a small parcel of land; perhaps as little as 10 acres. Removed from their natal habitat and displaced, a turtle can become disoriented, or not find its needs for life in a new location.
Road mortality is high for turtles in some areas, but if you see a box turtle along a roadway, it is not looking for a ride, but perhaps simply trying to reach familiar habitat on the other side. Even a species as successful as the eastern box turtle, having occupied the earth for millions of years, is not without challenges.
A good place to see an eastern box turtle is at Sideling Hill Creek.
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