Join our field research team as we explore how urbanization affects Eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) across Staten Island, Queens, and Long Island! In parternship with the Seatuck Environmental Association, the Friends of the Long Pond Greenbelt, and the South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center, we are launching a long-term ecological monitoring program to study the demography, life history, and habitat use of these charismatic, long-lived turtles. Volunteers will work alongside scientists, conservation partners, and a trained wildlife detection dog (and his handler) to help find and document turtles in parks and preserves across the region. 

We will survey four sites along an urbanization gradient, ranging from more urban locations in Queens and Staten Island to more rural areas in Brookhaven and Southampton, Long Island. Exact site details will be shared with volunteers after they register. 

Volunteers are welcome to participate in as few as one survey day to be eligible; however, we ask that on any day you sign up, you commit to attending for the full duration of the survey.

All surveys will start at 7:30 AM and are expected to last between 4 and 6 hours. 

Volunteers will walk systematic transects through the habitat alongside the turtle detection dog team, assisting in visual searches for box turtles.Each turtle we find will be carefully measured, weighed, photographed, and assessed for age, sex, and overall health. We will also give each turtle a small, harmless shell notch for identification and collect a tiny blood sample for future genetic studies. After data collection, every turtle will be gently returned to the exact spot where it was found. Volunteers will have the opportunity to observe and learn about these scientific techniques, but all handling and measurements will be performed by trained researchers. 

This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in wildlife research, contribute to conservation science, and work alongside trained wildlife detection dogs. Whether you are a student, naturalist, or outdoor enthusiast, your participation will help us better understand how Eastern box turtles are responding to urbanization. 

Fieldwork involves walking several miles over uneven terrain and through dense vegetation, often in warm and humid conditions. Volunteers may encounter ticks, mosquitoes, poison ivy, and other natural hazards. Although rare, there is also a possibility of encountering snakes, wasps, or uneven footing that could lead to minor injuries. All volunteers should wear appropriate clothing, including insect-repellent-treated gear, and be prepared for outdoor conditions. Safety guidelines will be reviewed before each survey. To ensure everyone’s safety, volunteers will be asked to complete a simple liability waiver before joining the surveys.

We will be joined in the field by Dr. Kris Hoffman and her wildlife detection dog, Newt! Kris and Newt have assisted with many turtle surveys across the northeast, with many of their endeavors highlighted in the press, including The Dodo, Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom, The National Desk, and many more.