Posted on Sunday, May 23rd, 2021
A tough shell is the trademark characteristic of turtles, but they remain vulnerable to conservation threats in almost every habitat they occupy. As World Turtle Day approaches this May 23, raising awareness and support for turtle conservation is a fitting way to celebrate our shelled friends and help secure their future in the wild.
Around since prehistoric times, turtles and tortoises may seem untouchable, but over half the world’s species are threatened with extinction. This sobering statistic is of elevated concern in Asia, which is home to 1/3 of all freshwater turtle species. 80% of these species are under threat by the unsustainable trade for food and traditional medicine.
Your Zoo’s efforts in Asian turtle conservation began in Vietnam in 2001 with the establishment of the Asian Turtle Program (ATP) and continue to develop and expand in exciting and meaningful ways. Head Veterinarian Dr. Mike Selig has traveled to Vietnam twice to assist with procedures, train veterinary staff, and deliver supplies to our partners. These capacity building activities equip the ATP team to manage the large volume of turtle rescues they receive and to perform higher skill procedures when needed.
The outlook for freshwater turtles may seem discouraging, but your Zoo’s turtle conservation program has seen inspiring successes within the last year:
What can you do to be part of Asian turtles’ conservation success story?