News  New publication promotes wood turtle conservation

A new book, Biology and Conservation of the Wood Turtle, was recently published by the Northeast Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. This semi-technical publication is dedicated to the evolution, ecology, biology, spatial ecology, habitat needs, and conservation of the wood turtle. MassWildlife's State Herpetologist, Mike Jones, was the leading editor coordinating the contributions by wood turtle specialists from 13 state fish and wildlife agencies and non-governmental conservation groups. Supported in part through regional state wildlife grants, this semi-technical and richly illustrated 235-page publication will be of interest to natural resource professionals and land managers. The Wood Turtle is emblematic of cold, remote, clean rivers from Nova Scotia to the mountains of Virginia. Here in Massachusetts wood turtles, listed under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act, are found primarily in western, central, and northeastern Massachusetts. Wood turtle populations across the state have declined as a result of habitat fragmentation and degradation, illegal collection for biological supply and pet markets, and intensive agriculture cultivation near streams. MassWildlife is actively working with non-governmental groups, high schools and universities, and towns to stabilize populations and restore habitat for this species. 

Hard copy supplies are limited. To be added to a waitlist and be notified when an electronic version is available, please email michael.t.jones@mass.gov

Learn more about the turtles of Massachusetts.