Protecting Our Turtles: Nest Box Pilot Program Comes to Lake Wilcox

If you’ve spent time around Lake Wilcox, you’ve likely spotted turtles basking on logs or slowly making their way across grassy patches. These gentle creatures are an important part of our local ecosystem — but sadly, their eggs and hatchlings face tough odds of survival.

That’s why the City of Richmond Hill is thrilled to announce that we’ve partnered with Oak Ridges Turtles and Turtle Guardians to pilot a Turtle Nest Box Program!

🐢 What Are Turtle Nest Boxes?

The nest boxes are simple but effective: a 2’x2’ wooden frame covered with wire mesh and fitted with four escape holes. Each box is labelled with program details and contact information.

The purpose? To give turtle eggs a fighting chance by keeping out predators like raccoons, who often dig up nests before the hatchlings can emerge.

🌱 Where Will You See Them?

You’ll find nest boxes at:

• Channel Gate Parkette

• Lake Wilcox Channel

• North Lake Road (near 107 North Lake Road)

⏳ When Will They Be Removed?

The boxes aren’t permanent — they’ll be removed once the hatchlings safely emerge. This can happen in late summer, fall, or even the following spring depending on the nesting cycle.

💚 Why It Matters

Turtles are one of the oldest species on Earth, but today they face serious threats from habitat loss, road crossings, and predation. By protecting nests, we’re helping to boost their survival rates and safeguard biodiversity in Richmond Hill.

This pilot project is a small but meaningful step in ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy the sight of turtles in our community.

Thank you to Yana Pikulak from Oak Ridges Turtles for bringing this to Councillor Davidson's attention and to City staff for making this happen. Together, we can make a difference — one tiny turtle at a time. 💚