Look Out Below! Watch for Turtles Crossing New Jersey Beach Roadways in June

June means beach season and turtle season in New Jersey, and experts are cautioning motorists and beach visitors to be mindful of these creatures at this time.

Each year, during early summer, female turtles begin traveling across South Jersey's coastal roadways in search of sandy spots to lay their eggs.

The Wetlands Institute in Stone Harbor notes that several turtle species, including diamondback terrapins, leave marsh areas seeking drier, higher ground for nesting. Many of these turtle crossings on roadways align with lunar cycles and their effect on high tides. Officials confirm this month's full moon and tidal changes are putting the turtles on the move.

Officials said the most common areas for turtle crossings are on Route 47, Ocean Drive, and the roads going into the towns of Avalon, Cape May, Sea Isle, and Stone Harbor.

On Tuesday, June 10, The Wetlands Institute issued a Facebook post noting that the week of June 9 would be a highly active week for the turtles, which could be on the move at any point during the day. Officials said that if you find one in immediate danger on the road and can safely stop your vehicle, "move it in the direction it's crossing, but only if it's safe to do so. Never put yourself in harm's way. And remember, never take any wild turtle as a pet or move one to a different location."