World Turtle Day 2022: History, Significance, Conservation and more

World Turtle Day 2022: World Turtle Day is observed throughout the world on 23 May. The day is celebrated to make people aware of the conservation and protection of turtles and tortoises. 

American Tortoise Rescue (ATR) first observed World Turtle Day in 1990 and since then the world is observing this day globally. 

World Turtle Day is next Monday, May 23, 2022. Leading up to it, I'll post links to as many different #WorldTurtleDay observances as I can!

Hey! If you discover something going on for World Turtle Day, would you mind posting the link in the comments? Thank you! 💚🐢 pic.twitter.com/YLwWJaHGUb

— Sofa Cushion Challenge (@SofaCushionChal) May 18, 2022

About American Tortoise Rescue (ATR)

To protect the species of tortoise and turtle a nonprofit organisation named American Tortoise Rescue (ATR) was established in 1990. The day was created as an observance to help people to protect turtles and tortoise and their disappearing habitats around the world. 

Measures Given by ATR

• On should never buy a turtle or tortoise from a pet shop as it increases demand from the wild

• Only when the turtle or tortoise is sick or injured, they should be removed from the wild

Who are Turtles?

Turtles are considered to be the oldest living species (approx 200 million years old) in the world and these ancient creatures evolved before the mammals, birds, snakes or lizards. As per biologists, turtles managed to outlive many other species because of their shells, which provide protection to them.

List of some critically endangered turtles and their scientific names

• Hawksbill Turtle - Eretmochelys imbricata

• Leatherback Turtle - Dermochelys coriacea

Endangered turtles and scientific names

• Green Turtle - Chelonia mydas

• Loggerhead Turtle - Caretta caretta

Vulnerable turtles and scientific names

• Olive Ridley Turtle - Lepidochelys olivacea

• Giant Tortoise