Every year on May 23rd, World Turtle Day splashes into our calendars with a wave of excitement and a serious mission: to spotlight the trouble of turtles across the globe and mobilize efforts to protect these charismatic creatures and their habitats.

Turtles have been navigating the Earth’s waters and lands for millions of years. Despite their ancient lineage, they’re facing modern-day threats like never before. From habitat destruction and plastic pollution to the illegal wildlife trade and the impacts of climate change, turtles are in a tough spot. Many species are teetering on the edge of extinction, and they need our help to turn the tide.

Conserving turtles isn’t just for the experts—everyone can play a part in this global effort. Here are some simple ways anyone can make a positive ripple:

• Support Turtle Guardians: Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations that dive deep into turtle conservation. Every little bit helps safeguard these creatures.
• Cut the Plastic: Reduce single-use plastics to keep our oceans and rivers clean, making them safer for marine turtles. Together, our small actions create a big impact!
• Spread the Word: Share cool turtle facts and conservation tips with friends and family. Post about World Turtle Day on social media! Awareness is the first step toward action.

World Turtle Day isn’t just a call to action—it’s also an opportunity to connect with these remarkable reptiles in fun and meaningful ways. Whether it’s watching a documentary about their ancient lineage or reading about the different species, there’s an endless stream of ways to appreciate and admire turtles.

Take a moment today to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of turtles by learning about their diverse habitats and the incredible journeys many of them undertake during their lifetimes. Dive into their world through stunning photography or videos, or if you’re near a habitat, observe them in their natural surroundings from a respectful distance. When we love something, we want to help protect it!