Many folks are familiar with Avian Haven, a hospital for wild birds located in Freedom.

young Chicks in the nest
markhonosvitaly
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But what many may not know is that they also treat injured turtles.

A Baby Eastern Painted Turtle.
JasonOndreicka
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According to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Maine is right in the thick of Turtle season, when momma turtles are looking for places to lay their eggs. It's a time when many turtles, including the state-threatened Spotted Turtle, are injured along Maine's roadways.

Common Snapping Turtle
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"Mating occurs from March to May. During June, females leave the wetlands and travel up to 1/3 of a mile to a sunny site with sandy soils to lay a clutch of 3-7 eggs."

According to the Avian Haven Facebook Page, they are currently set up to help turtles in their special pools and recovery habitats.

"Most of the turtles here have shell fractures from being struck by vehicles. We flush and clean the wounds, make sure the turtle is stable, then use one of several temporary adhesive products to stabilize the fractures."

Seneca Riggins, Townsquare Media
Seneca Riggins, Townsquare Media
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Conveniently, the co-founder of the organization, Marc Payne happens to be a herptile specialist. So Payne oversees the care of these turtles with the help of others at the Haven.

The folks at Avian Haven say that If you happen to come across an injured turtle it's important to take note of where you found it, before taking it to their facility.

"If you want to help a turtle cross a road, always move them in the direction they are headed. If you find an injured turtle, please make note of the exact rescue location so the turtle can be returned to their home when they're ready to be released."

So keep your eyes open for our buddies in a half-shell. And if you do find one in need of help, feel free to reach out to Avian Haven. You can call them at (207) 382-6761 or check their website by clicking here.

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