Martha’s Vineyard Native Land & Pond Turtle Presentation

Martha’s Vineyard Native Land and Pond Turtles

A presentation by Richard Johnson, Vineyard environmental expert.

Turtle nesting activity peaks in early June on Martha’s Vineyard – and on Thursday, June 12th from 4:30-5:30 pm, the West Tisbury Library will be hosting Richard Johnson for a presentation on the status of Martha’s Vineyard native pond and land turtles.

Richard Johnson was the Executive  Director of Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation from 1990-2008, head of the MV Tick Program from 2011-2022 and an island naturalist for 30+ years. This spring, Johnson is launching a project to assess the population status of painted turtles and the other 3 species of native turtles.  He aims to determine whether red eared sliders, an invasive turtle recently discovered on the Island, are reproducing here.

Richard’s talk will focus on the five species of land and pond turtles on Martha’s Vineyard. He will introduce the four native and one invasive species, including identification, natural history and ecology.  He will also discuss the threats to each species and what can be done to protect them, including how individuals and families can help. Learn about turtles and meet others who share your interest and concern! This event is free and open to the public.