Another Box Turtle Found Near Rahway River in Cranford

A Cranford resident discovered another box turtle near the Rahway River on August 8, 2026, weeks after more than 150 box turtles were illegally abandoned along the same waterway on July 29. The find adds to an ongoing rescue and law enforcement effort as Cranford residents continue to watch for animals scattered throughout the area following the mass abandonment.

Union County Life covers Cranford community news and animal welfare stories across all 21 Union County municipalities.

The Latest Discovery

Jim Norbert, a Cranford resident, found the turtle at approximately 2:30 p.m. while taking photographs along the river behind the Riverfront at Cranford Station apartments. The turtle appeared dehydrated and hungry and was barely moving. Cranford police responded to the discovery and carefully recovered the turtle after moving several large containers from the area.

The Ongoing Mass Abandonment

The August 8 discovery follows the July 29 illegal abandonment of more than 150 box turtles along the Rahway River in Cranford. The abandoned animals included native Eastern box turtles and three-toed box turtles. Three-toed box turtles are not native to New Jersey, indicating these animals may have been part of an illegal exotic pet trade or similar operation.

Rescue and Recovery Efforts

By August 3, 2026, 167 turtles had been admitted to the Mercer County Wildlife Center, where they were being examined, treated, and cared for. Wildlife experts were working on a long-term plan for the turtles' rehabilitation and placement.

Cranford residents played a significant role in the initial rescue effort. The Cranford Fire Department served as a temporary collection point before animals were transported to the wildlife center. Officials had asked residents to watch for additional turtles scattered throughout the area, and Norbert's discovery shows those calls for help are being heeded.

Norbert said he planned to return to the area to look for more turtles, reflecting the community commitment to finding and helping the abandoned animals.

Caring for Found Turtles

Residents who find a box turtle should place it in a secure cardboard box lined with a clean towel or paper towels, then keep it indoors at room temperature and away from pets and other wildlife. Residents should not attempt to keep recovered turtles as pets and should contact appropriate authorities rather than caring for the animals independently.

Supporting the Turtles

The recovered turtles are connected to an active law enforcement investigation. Donations to support the turtles' medical care, food, and rehabilitation can be made to Wildlife Center Friends. Supporters can also help provide food through Uncle Jim's Worm Farm gift cards.

Find more Cranford community news and animal welfare stories on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What happened to the box turtles in Cranford?
A: More than 150 box turtles were illegally abandoned along the Rahway River in Cranford on July 29, 2026. By August 3, 167 turtles were admitted to the Mercer County Wildlife Center for care and rehabilitation.

Q: When was another turtle found?
A: Another box turtle was discovered on August 8, 2026, at approximately 2:30 p.m. near the Rahway River behind the Riverfront at Cranford Station apartments.

Q: Who found the August 8 turtle?
A: Cranford resident Jim Norbert discovered the turtle while taking photographs along the river.

Q: What condition was the turtle in?
A: The turtle appeared dehydrated and hungry and was barely moving when discovered.

Q: What types of turtles were abandoned?
A: The abandoned animals included native Eastern box turtles and three-toed box turtles. Three-toed box turtles are not native to New Jersey.

Q: Where are the abandoned turtles being cared for?
A: The Mercer County Wildlife Center is examining, treating, and caring for the turtles while developing a long-term rehabilitation plan.

Q: What should I do if I find a box turtle?
A: Place the turtle in a secure cardboard box lined with clean towels or paper towels. Keep it indoors at room temperature away from pets and other wildlife. Contact appropriate authorities rather than attempting to care for it independently.

Q: Can I keep a found turtle as a pet?
A: No. Residents should not keep recovered turtles as pets. Contact authorities instead.

Q: How can I help the abandoned turtles?
A: Donations can be made to Wildlife Center Friends to support medical care, food, and rehabilitation. Uncle Jim's Worm Farm gift cards can also be donated to help provide food.

Q: Is there a law enforcement investigation?
A: Yes. The recovered turtles are connected to an active law enforcement investigation into the illegal abandonment.