Aquatic Reptiles at Risk

Globally, turtles and snakes are declining at an alarming rate. In Ontario, seven of our eight native turtle species have been listed as at risk; six of these species, as well as the more commonly found Midland Painted Turtle, are found in the Thames River watershed.

Eleven of Ontario’s 18 types (species and subspecies) of native snake are listed as at risk; seven of these are found in the Thames watershed. Research being conducted in the Thames watershed is providing much needed information on these poorly understood animals and their habitat.

Threats to reptile populations include:

• habitat loss and alteration
• road mortality
• predation
• pollution
• recreational fishing
• collection for food or as pets
• human persecution