A little help crossing the road

[stickytoedgecko]

I have a question about a wild snapping turtle that I helped cross the road today. The story is a little lengthy, but any input would be appreciated.

So here's the story.

On my way home from work today I spotted a large (for me) snapping turtle wandering from the shoulder of the road towards the other side. It was a very busy road and i was afraid for the turtle so I stopped to see if I could figure out a way to coax the little fella to the other side. I managed to get it from the center median to the side of the road that it was trying to get to, when another guy stopped to help as well. (I thank him for teaching me how to pick up the turtle without catistrophic damage to it or myself)

When we managed to get the turtle off the shoulder and on his way down the other bank we noticed a fence and no real water to be seen. So off to the other side of the road we go to find a more sutiable place for him. On the side of the road that he came from there was a small creek and pond. So we decided to take the turtle back to where he came from.

I got home and told my wife my story, and she told me that I should have taken the turtle in the direction that it was going.

Is this true?
I want to know for the next time, so I dont make the same mistake twice.

If it is true, why?
Just cause I'm curious.

Thanks

[TheLionsShare]

Yes, you should have.. Now that turtle has to redo it's whole trek and risk the road again.. You should always take turtles in the direction they're headed.. Once they've picked out an area to lay eggs, they will usually try to get there no matter what. Good for you for trying to help it though, always nice to see.