About – World Turtle Day®

35 Years of Protection

World Turtle Day® is the global movement founded by American Tortoise Rescue®— pioneers in advocacy and global education since 1990.

Our Mission

American Tortoise Rescue® was founded in 1990 with a simple but powerful mission: to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect turtles and tortoises.

Today, we've evolved into a digital-first global advocacy platform. Through World Turtle Day®, we educate millions about turtle conservation, provide essential resources for new owners, and advocate for habitat protection worldwide.

Our vision is a world where turtles and tortoises thrive in healthy habitats, protected by informed and passionate communities powered by digital tools and global connection.

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What is World Turtle Day®?

World Turtle Day® is an annual observance held on May 23rd to bring attention to, and increase knowledge of and respect for, turtles and tortoises, and encourage human action to help them survive and thrive.

The Movement

Founded in 2000 by American Tortoise Rescue®, World Turtle Day® has grown into a global phenomenon celebrated in over 190 countries. Through educational events, social media campaigns, and grassroots activism, millions come together annually to celebrate these ancient creatures and take action to protect them.

How to Participate

✓ Host or attend a local "Shellebration" event
✓ Share turtle conservation facts on social media
✓ Support turtle rescue organizations
✓ Educate others about turtle habitat protection

Meet Our Founders

The visionaries behind American Tortoise Rescue and World Turtle Day®.

Together, Susan and Marshall have dedicated over 35 years to turtle and tortoise rescue and conservation. Their combined passion sparked a global movement to protect these ancient creatures, founding American Tortoise Rescue® in 1990 and creating World Turtle Day® to bring worldwide attention to turtle conservation.

Partner With Us

Schools, zoos, aquariums, and organizations—join our network of conservation partners and amplify your impact.

Contact Us

Have questions? Media inquiries? We'd love to hear from you. Our team is here to help.

Support Our Mission

Your donation directly supports turtle rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation efforts worldwide.

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

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