))
Episode 94: What 200 Million Years of Survival Can Teach Us
Manage episode 483867885 series 3496754
Content provided by Outdoor Journal Radio Podcast Network. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Outdoor Journal Radio Podcast Network or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.
From the edge of extinction to the heart of wetland conservation, Dr. Sue Carstairs is leading a revolution in turtle rescue and rehabilitation at the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre. As veterinarian and executive director, she's transformed this humble organization into Canada's only dedicated turtle hospital, saving thousands of these ancient creatures each year.
The numbers are staggering – 2,300 injured turtles admitted last year alone and 9,000 eggs incubated from injured mothers. From their newly-built facility in Peterborough, Dr. Carstairs and her team orchestrate a province-wide rescue network with 1,500 volunteer "turtle taxis" and 50 first-responder veterinarians. It's a race against time to save creatures that have survived 200 million years but now face unprecedented threats from roads, habitat loss, and illegal collection.
What makes this work so crucial is the unique life history of turtles. A snapping turtle must live 50-60 years just to replace itself in the population. Every adult saved has a measurable impact on conservation. These aren't just fascinating creatures – they're essential components of healthy wetlands that filter our drinking water and prevent flooding. When we save turtles, we're protecting ecosystems that sustain all life.
The Centre's work goes beyond rescue – they're pioneering education programs, collecting vital research data, and inspiring a new generation of conservationists. Learn how you can help these remarkable creatures that can regenerate spinal cords, survive with almost no oxygen, and carry the wisdom of 200 million years of evolution in their DNA. Visit ontarioturtle.ca to discover how you can join this extraordinary effort to protect Ontario's eight at-risk turtle species for generations to come.
Chapters
1. Welcome to Under the Canopy (00:00:00)
2. Meet Dr. Sue Carstairs (00:04:58)
3. Inside Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre (00:09:28)
4. Turtle Hospital and Rescue Efforts (00:18:24)
5. Ontario's Eight Turtle Species (00:28:44)
6. Turtle Eggs and Nesting Season (00:34:24)
7. Pet Turtles and Release Problems (00:45:02)
8. Turtle Age and Lifespan Mysteries (00:50:45)
9. Road Safety and Helping Turtles (00:54:25)
10. How to Help and Get Involved (01:00:00)
95 episodes
Share
