World Turtle Day is on Sunday, May 23, 2027, and it falls on May 23 every year. It raises awareness of turtles and tortoises, many of which are threatened or endangered. It’s also a day to learn how to help them in the wild and care for them properly at home.
When Is World Turtle Day?
It’s always May 23. In spring, many turtles are on the move to nest, so it’s a good time to watch for them on roads.
Who Started World Turtle Day?
American Tortoise Rescue started World Turtle Day in 2000. The nonprofit was founded in 1990 by Susan Tellem and Marshall Thompson to rescue, rehabilitate and protect turtles and tortoises.
The day aims to “bring attention to, and increase knowledge of and respect for, turtles and tortoises,” the group says. It also encourages people to take action to help them survive.
Supporters host local “Shellebration” events, share conservation facts online and raise money for turtle rescues. Schools often use the day for lessons on habitats and wildlife.
Why Turtles Need Help
Turtles have been around since the age of dinosaurs, but many species now face serious threats. All six species of sea turtle found in U.S. waters are listed and protected under the Endangered Species Act, NOAA Fisheries notes.
The biggest threats include accidental capture in fishing gear and entanglement in marine debris. Turtles also lose nesting and feeding habitat to coastal development, pollution and climate change.
Turtles grow slowly and many take years to reach breeding age. That makes it hard for populations to bounce back once numbers fall, so protecting adults and nests matters.
Pet turtles and safety
Turtles can carry Salmonella. Selling or distributing turtles with shells under 4 inches has been banned in the U.S. since 1975, with limited exceptions, the CDC notes.
Small turtles pose a greater risk to young children, who may handle them like toys. In one 2010–2011 outbreak, two-thirds of patients were under 10 years old.
How to Celebrate World Turtle Day
- Help turtles cross safely: if it’s safe for you, move a turtle across the road in the direction it was heading.
- Cut plastic waste: use reusable bags and bottles to reduce marine debris.
- Join a cleanup: beach and river cleanups remove trash turtles can swallow or get tangled in.
- Respect nesting beaches: keep your distance from nests and follow local lighting rules.
- Adopt, don’t buy: turtles live for decades, so contact a rescue if you’re ready for that commitment.
- Wash your hands: always wash after touching a turtle or its tank, and supervise kids.
- Support a rescue: donate to a turtle rescue or a conservation group.
- Wear green: American Tortoise Rescue encourages people to dress in green and share turtle facts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a turtle and a tortoise?
All tortoises are turtles, but not all turtles are tortoises. Tortoises live on land and have sturdy, elephant-like legs. Most other turtles spend time in water.
How long do turtles live?
It varies by species, but many pet turtles and tortoises live for decades. Some tortoises can outlive their owners, so plan for long-term care.
Should I release a pet turtle into the wild?
No. Released pets can spread disease and compete with native turtles. Contact a turtle rescue instead.
Are turtles good pets for kids?
They can live for decades and carry Salmonella, so they need careful adult supervision and hygiene.