Spring Warmth Causes Early Wake Up For Grand Haven Turtle

If you think Michigan's latest round of late-winter weather has been confusing for us, it's been even stranger for many of Michigan's wildlife. The heatwave in late February caused many stinkbugs to wake up early for the season, then go dormant again once temperatures dropped back below freezing.

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Now, it's happened again: Michigan gets hit by yet another late-season storm, with much of the Midwest getting dumped on by snow. The problem is, since things had heated up around the state, mating season started early, and now many of the young animals are finding themselves in the cold.

West Michigan Wildlife Center Rescues Turtle

The West Michigan Wildlife Center recently posted on Facebook that a little painter turtle, Michigan's state turtle, was found on a trail in Grand Haven shortly before the temperatures dropped this week.

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The very small turtle, weighing only 4 grams, was taken into the center before it got cold, likely saving its life. The center claims it will take care of the turtle "for a few weeks" until temperatures stay warm consistently.

Painter turtles typically hatch in the spring when temperatures remain above 50°F, usually in early April. This tiny turtle is the only one turtle that was noticed, but there are likely more animals that have exited hibernation early.

Fluctuating temperatures like this in early spring can also lead to plants blooming early when it's hot and actually killing them when the water inside the stems freezes. It's why it's important you don't put your own plants outside too early, too.