Signs throughout Warsaw have heads turning and cars slowing down. “Save the turtles” and similar signs have been placed around Warsaw by students of Madison Elementary School who have a big heart for these tiny, reptilian creatures.

It’s an issue many have not thought about, but for students at Madison, saving the turtles was a task worth taking on. Each year, many turtles are both accidentally and intentionally run over as they make their slow trek across asphalt roads in order to find food or a place to lay eggs.

According to Forbes.com writer David DiSalvo, a total of 7-8 years is needed for a turtle to reach a reproductive age. In that time, many turtles make several trips across dangerous roads and highways. DiSalvo writes that, though a female turtle that lives 50 years may lay up to 100 eggs, it is unlikely more than two or three baby turtles will actually survive. (see article).

If you are driving and see a body of water nearby, or one of Madison Elementary’s “turtle crossing” signs, students urge you to slow down and “save the turtles.”