World Turtle Day🐢

About World Turtle Day

How long until World Turtle Day?
World Turtle Day .		Add to calendar
Dates of World Turtle Day
2026 InternationalMay 23 International Sat, May 23Observances Holiday 2025 InternationalMay 23 International Fri, May 23Observances Holiday 2024 InternationalMay 23 International Thu, May 23Observances Holiday 2023 InternationalMay 23 International Tue, May 23Observances Holiday 2022 InternationalMay 23 International Mon, May 23Observances Holiday
Summary
A special day to appreciate these heroes in a half-shell.

Honoring Our Ancient Friends: A Look at World Turtle Day

Every year on May 23rd, the world turns its attention to some of its most ancient and endearing inhabitants: turtles and tortoises. World Turtle Day, established in 2000 by American Tortoise Rescue (ATR), is a global observance dedicated to celebrating these fascinating reptiles and promoting their survival in an increasingly challenged world.

The day serves as a crucial reminder of the vital role turtles and tortoises play in our ecosystems, from helping control insect populations to dispersing seeds, thereby contributing to biodiversity. It's also a stark moment to reflect on the threats they face, which range from habitat destruction and climate change to illegal pet trade and pollution.

Why May 23rd?

The choice of May 23rd is largely due to its timing during the late spring in the Northern Hemisphere, a period when many turtle species are emerging from hibernation and becoming more active, making them more visible and a focus of attention.

The Plight of Turtles and Tortoises

Sadly, many species of turtles and tortoises are endangered or vulnerable. Freshwater turtles face perils from dam construction and water pollution, while sea turtles contend with plastic debris, entanglement in fishing nets, and disappearing nesting beaches. Tortoises, particularly those in arid regions, are susceptible to desertification and poaching for the illegal pet trade.

World Turtle Day aims to shine a spotlight on these issues, encouraging individuals, communities, and governments to take action.

How You Can Help

The beauty of World Turtle Day is its accessibility. There are numerous ways to participate and make a difference:

• Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about local turtle and tortoise species and share that knowledge. Understanding their needs is the first step to protection.

• Support Reputable Rescues and Sanctuaries: Organizations like American Tortoise Rescue work tirelessly to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome turtles and tortoises.

• Never Buy Wild-Caught Turtles: This fuels the illegal pet trade, which devastates wild populations. If considering a turtle as a pet, ensure it's from a reputable breeder and understand the significant long-term commitment involved.

• Protect Habitats: Advocate for the preservation of wetlands, forests, and coastal areas. Even small actions like picking up litter can prevent harm to turtles.

• Drive Carefully: Be mindful of turtles crossing roads, especially during warmer months.

• Reduce Plastic Consumption: Our plastic waste often ends up in oceans, posing a severe threat to sea turtles.

• Report Illegal Activities: If you witness any illegal activities involving turtles or tortoises, report them to the authorities.

A Day of Celebration and Action

World Turtle Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it's a call to action. It’s a day to celebrate the longevity, resilience, and unique beauty of these ancient creatures, while simultaneously renewing our commitment to their survival. By working together, we can ensure that future generations will also have the privilege of sharing our planet with these extraordinary reptiles. Let's make every May 23rd count for our shelled friends.

All events on May 23rd 2026