Abstract:

The microclimate of a turtle nest determines major physiological characteristics of the hatchlings, including the mass of the eggs during incubation, the mass of the hatchlings, and the sex of the turtle (Cagle et Al. 1993).  The microclimate also affects the duration of incubation.  Our study has been designed to quantify how paved roadways, wooden fencing and metal fencing affect the soil microclimate at locations where turtles habitually nest. The two species of turtle known to commonly nest in this study site was the eastern painted turtle (Chrysemys picta) and the common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina).

            The study was conducted during the month of July 2006.  The locations tested in the study were grouped into three main categories: the wooden fence, the metal fence, and along the road.  The road was spilt into two more areas, one across from the wooden fence and one across from the metal fence.  These four areas were named “wood fence,” “wood road,” “metal fence,” and “metal road” respectively.