Passengers flying out of JFK International Airport in New York this week hit some unexpected turtlebulence. About 150 diamondback terrapins scooted across Runway 4L on their way to lay their eggs at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge in Queens.
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| USFWS Headquarters/cc by 2.0 |
Pilots paused and gave the pedestrian mothers the right of way across the tarmac, while compassionate crew members lent the turtles a helping hand. Some flights were delayed a few minutes and others were rerouted for takeoff while the reptiles ruled the runway. Reportedly, no bags were lost as all the turtles carried their luggage with them.
Turtles need help on interstates as well as at international airports. Whenever you see turtles attempting to cross a road, carry them the rest of the way in the same direction they were going. Click here for more turtle-friendly tips.
Written by Michelle Kretzer
