This analysis succeeded in identifying potential habitat areas for the snapping turtle in the Region of Waterloo, Ontario by conducting a weighted multi-criteria evaluation (MCE) assessing various needs and risks to snapping turtle habitation. MCEs were carried out to identify areas best for hibernation, nesting, and general habitat space. From the results, we displayed habitat patches (areas 1km by 1km) from which we could then address barriers to snapping turtle movement and recommend conservation interventions such as road signage, fencing, or tunnels.

While every analysis involves error, our display of habitat patches was designed to be a more general depiction of snapping turtle habitat. This is partly because snapping turtles can be considered to be “habitat generalists” for the majority of the year (our analysis revealed extensive hibernation areas, but limited nesting areas). Our analysis can help Kitchener and the wider Waterloo Region improve and expand their snapping turtle conservation efforts.