World Turtle Day 2025: A Global Call to Protect Ancient Reptiles

World Turtle Day, observed annually on May 23, is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about the conservation of turtles and tortoises. These ancient reptiles, which have graced the Earth for over 200 million years, are now among the most threatened species due to various human-induced activities. World Turtle Day not only celebrates their unique ecological roles but also highlights the urgent need for their protection from environmental threats, habitat destruction, illegal pet trade, and climate change.

The Origins: How World Turtle Day Began

• World Turtle Day was first celebrated in 2000, founded by Susan Tellem and Marshall Thompson, who established the American Tortoise Rescue (ATR) in 1990.
• This non-profit organization, based in California, was created to rescue and rehabilitate turtles and tortoises and to spread awareness of their declining numbers.
• The inception of World Turtle Day turned their local mission into a global conservation movement, now embraced by schools, environmentalists, and animal lovers worldwide.

Why World Turtle Day Matters: Environmental and Cultural Significance

• Turtles and tortoises are not only charismatic creatures but also vital to maintaining ecological balance. Sea turtles help control jellyfish populations and maintain healthy seagrass beds, which are essential for many marine species.
• Land tortoises aerate the soil and disperse seeds through their burrowing and grazing behaviors.
• Beyond their ecological value, these reptiles hold symbolic importance in many cultures, representing longevity, wisdom, and resilience.

Alarming Threats: Why Turtles Are at Risk

• Despite their long history of survival, turtles today face numerous dangers. Their habitats are shrinking due to urban development, climate change, and pollution. Plastic waste, often mistaken for food, causes severe health issues and fatalities among marine turtles.
• Additionally, poaching and illegal trade for their shells, meat, or as exotic pets have pushed many species to the brink of extinction.
• According to global conservation reports, 129 out of 300 turtle species are currently endangered.

Educational Impact: Raising Awareness and Action

• World Turtle Day is a platform to educate the public about the importance of turtle conservation.
• Many schools, zoos, and conservation centers organize events like workshops, exhibitions, and turtle-themed activities for children.
• The day also encourages individuals to share facts on social media, wear green attire, and use hashtags such as #WorldTurtleDay to promote awareness and inspire action globally.

Ways to Celebrate and Contribute

There are numerous ways individuals can participate meaningfully,

• Adopt a turtle or tortoise from a rescue center.
• Volunteer or donate to conservation organizations like ATR.
• Join beach cleanup drives to protect turtle nesting sites.
• Support legislation and community projects focused on environmental conservation.
• These activities serve as reminders that every small effort counts in the global mission to protect turtles.

Fascinating Turtle Facts to Remember

• Turtles predate dinosaurs, having existed for over 200 million years.
• Tortoises can live up to 300 years, while turtles usually live 40–70 years.
• Some turtles can breathe through their cloaca, enabling them to stay underwater longer.
• They help in cleaning ecosystems by eating dead fish and decaying plant matter.