We need to raise awareness about a critically endangered species! Over the past several months, students in public and private schools across New Jersey have chosen the bog turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) to join the ranks of state symbols--along with the American goldfinch and the highbush blueberry. Once found throughout the Garden State (the only state where it was so widespread), bog turtle populations have declined due to habitat loss and illegal collection for the pet trade. Though it lives in twelve states across the eastern U.S., none currently recognize it as an official state reptile. This is North America's smallest turtle, and its colors (black and orange) match those of Princeton University! For these reasons, children have chosen the bog turtle for our state reptile, and we petition New Jersey Legislators and the Governor to make their wish come true. This petition affirms our support for New Jersey Senate Bill No. 3145, introduced by Senator Christopher "Kip" Bateman, and other relevant bills that need to be passed by the New Jersey Legislature and signed into law by the Governor.
Please follow the progress of this petition through our Facebook Page and the website http://www.teacherturtles.com.
We need to recognize this cute and charismatic species!
