Emergency Guide – World Turtle Day®

Stay Calm. Here's How to Help.

Step-by-step guidance to ensure the turtle's safety and yours.

Quick Assessment

Is the turtle in the road? Move it to safety in the direction it was heading.

Is it injured? (Bleeding, broken shell, visible wounds) Call a wildlife rehabilitator immediately.

Is it a hatchling? Baby turtles need professional care—contact a rescue right away.

Emergency Steps

Follow these steps while waiting to reach a wildlife rehabilitator.

1

Assess the Situation

Determine if the turtle is injured, sick, or simply crossing a road. Look for visible injuries, unusual behavior, or signs of distress.

2

Keep the Turtle Safe

If on a road, help the turtle cross in the direction it was heading. Use a towel or your shirt to gently pick it up. Never pick up by the tail.

3

Provide Temporary Care

Place in a ventilated box with damp towel. Keep in a quiet, dark area at room temperature. Do not put in water unless it's aquatic.

4

Contact a Rescue

Reach out to a local wildlife rehabilitator or turtle rescue immediately. They can provide proper medical care and guidance.

Do's & Dont's

DO

Pick up by grasping the shell on both sides
Keep the turtle at room temperature
Provide a dark, quiet environment
Contact a wildlife rehabilitator
Keep it away from pets and children

DON'T

Pick up a turtle by its tail
Put a land tortoise in water
Feed the turtle without expert advice
Release it in a different location
Keep it as a pet without proper knowledge

Need More Help?

Access our regional wildlife rehabilitator directory or browse FAQs for more guidance.

A global movement by American Tortoise Rescue® dedicated to protecting turtles and tortoises and their habitats around the world.

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