Located within the Native Plant Garden, NBG’s turtle and wildlife habitat supports turtles, amphibians, koi fish, birds, insects, and other urban wildlife through thoughtfully designed ponds, plantings, and protected spaces. The sanctuary offers visitors an opportunity to learn about local species, ecological balance, and the role urban green spaces play in protecting wildlife.
Turtle & Wildlife Sanctuary
Our turtles
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![Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina)]()
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina)
This is the only box turtle species native to New York State. Primarily found on Long Island, in the lower Hudson Valley, and in the Catskills, these terrestrial turtles are listed as a Species of Special Concern in NY due to declining populations.
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![Painted Turtles (Chrysemys picta)]()
Painted Turtles (Chrysemys picta)
Specifically the Eastern and Midland subspecies, are the most common, widespread native freshwater turtles in New York, often seen basking on logs in ponds, lakes, and marshes.
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![Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)]()
Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta)
Native to New York, often found near clean streams, rivers, and surrounding forests/meadows. They are listed as a Special Concern species in NY due to habitat loss and illegal collection. Currently not present in our wildlife habitat at NBG.
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![Red-Eared Sliders (Trachemys scripta elegant)]()
Red-Eared Sliders (Trachemys scripta elegant)
A non-native turtle species commonly found in urban ponds and waterways. Originally introduced to NY through the pet trade. Considered invasive.
Releasing pet turtles harms urban ecosystems
Red-eared sliders are not native to New York. Many end up in city ponds and waterways after being released as pets when owners can no longer care for them. These turtles can crowd out native species and disrupt local ecosystems.
At Narrows Botanical Gardens, rescued turtles are cared for so they are not released back into waterways, helping protect native wildlife. By caring for these animals and sharing information with the public, NBG promotes responsible pet ownership and healthier urban habitats.
Our conservation & wildlife stewardship programs
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![Turtle Rescue in volunteer hands]()
Turtle Rescue
The Turtle Rescue program rehabilitates injured and abandoned turtles, fish, and frogs, providing care and safe habitat within the gardens’ ponds and exhibits.
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![Bird Rescue on jimmy's head]()
Bird Rescue
In partnership with the Wild Bird Fund, Narrows Botanical Gardens provides space for the rehabilitation and release of injured birds, supporting their safe return to the urban environment.
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![Beehive]()
Apiary
The Apiary Program supports garden pollination while raising awareness about declining bee populations. Honey harvested from the hives is shared through seasonal Honey Events, helping connect visitors to the role pollinators play in a healthy urban ecosystem.
