03/28/2026
When most people picture reptiles, they imagine them basking on a hot summer rock. But did you know many species will emerge to sun themselves on warm days even when there’s still snow on the ground?
During the unseasonably warm spell a few weeks ago, Allen—a Blanding's turtle and long time resident of the Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute's study area (MTRI) —popped out of his winter shelter to soak up some rays.
These mid winter warm snaps can be risky. Reptiles may leave their safe overwintering spots to bask, only to be caught off guard when temperatures plunge again. Sudden freezes can be lethal, and it’s one more way climate change is putting pressure on already vulnerable species (don't worry about Allen, he's okay).
You can help. Reporting reptile sightings—especially in early spring—provides valuable information for biologists working to understand and protect these animals.
Blanding’s turtles like Allen are one of four species of freshwater turtle in Nova Scotia. We are also home to snapping turtles, wood turtles, and eastern painted turtles. All freshwater turtle species are at risk due to habitat loss, road mortality, climate change, pollution, the introduction of non-native species, the illegal pet trade, and more. Please report sightings, give turtles space, and come learn about turtles with the Museum and MTRI.
To help us study reptiles and amphibians (also known as “h**ps”) in Nova Scotia, upload your h**p observations on iNaturalist and join the project: “NS H**p Atlas” or report on www.h**ps.speciesatrisk.ca. Unsure of what species are here or want to learn more about them? Visit the Museum's website or chat with staff: https://naturalhistory.novascotia.ca/reptiles-and-amphibians-nova-scotia
Questions about the NS H**p Atlas project or the reporting site? Email Carter: [email protected] and follow Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute
Great photo of Allen taken by Jeffie McNeil.
