"Turtle Crossing" sign warns drivers

SHEFFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Many communities in Western Massachusetts have signs on roadsides warning drivers of "Deer Crossing," "Turkey Crossing," or  "Watch for Wildlife." But in the Southern Berkshire County Town of Sheffield, there's an odd one.."Turtle Crossing"

The signs are located on the Berkshire School Road, which runs from Route 7 to Route 41, and is used as a short cut by many drivers going from one side of the town to the other.

There are two locations where the road either goes through a swamp, or runs adjecent to a large pond, and it is at these two locations where you will find "Turtle Crossing" signs.

A check with the Sheffield Police Department learned that these signs are put up only in the spring, apparently when turtles cross the road to lay eggs in the swampy areas.. The the Sheffield Town Administrators office told 22News that the signs were donated to the town ( paid for with private money ) by a concerned citizen who didn't like the idea of the female turtles being "squished" by the oncoming traffic.

The signs are very visible, and after they were donated were put up with the help of the Town highway department ..