World Turtle Day

"Try to be like the turtle-at ease in your own shell." - Bill Copeland

Founded by the American Tortoise Rescue in 2000, this May 23 is World Turtle Day! This national holiday aims to celebrate the existence of turtles and educate people about the ways they can help protect their habitats. The charity was created by Susan Tellem and Marshall Thompson, animal activists who had a passion for tortoises. Nearly all species of sea turtle are endangered, this is mostly due to human activity. Turtles suffer from poaching, slaughtered for their eggs, meat and shells. Plastic in our oceans kill turtle through ingestion and entanglement, chemicals can weaken their immune systems and increase the risk of disease. Artificial lighting from overdeveloped coastal areas confuse newly hatched turtles and discourages female turtles from nesting.

Interesting facts

• Turtles live all around the world in almost every climate
• 6 out of 7 sea turtle species are classified as threatened or endangered
• Warmer temperatures result in more female turtles being born
• Turtles have lived in the Earth's oceans for the last 110 million years
• Provide ecotourism to local communities
• Some can live up to 50 years or more

There are many ways you can get involved in this national day. Many people around the world dress up as turtles or show their support by wearing the color green. Donate to a charity that supports turtles like the WWF or Sea Turtle Foundation. Share awareness of the cause on social media using the hashtag #WorldTurtleDay. Get your brand logo printed on one of our promotional turtle products and give them away at your next event to help increase awareness.

See our promotional products