On May 23, 2000, a heartfelt mission to save turtles and tortoises sparked the creation of World Turtle Day, an annual celebration dedicated to these ancient reptiles. This story begins with Susan Tellem and Marshall Thompson, a compassionate couple from Malibu, California, whose love for animals led them to establish the American Tortoise Rescue (ATR) in 1990. Their journey to launch World Turtle Day is one of dedication, driven by a desire to protect turtles and tortoises from the growing threats of habitat loss, illegal trade, and human neglect.
A Spark of Inspiration
Susan and Marshall’s passion for reptiles began with a simple realization: turtles and tortoises, often seen as “rocks with legs,” were misunderstood and under threat. These creatures, which have roamed Earth for over 200 million years, were facing extinction 129 of the 300 species are endangered due to pollution, habitat destruction, and illegal pet trade. The couple witnessed turtles being sold on streets, exploited as carnival prizes, or abandoned when owners tired of them. Determined to act, they founded ATR to rescue and rehabilitate these gentle reptiles, placing over 4,000 turtles and tortoises in caring homes since 1990.
The Birth of World Turtle Day
By 2000, Susan and Marshall recognized that rescue efforts alone weren’t enough. Public awareness was crucial to save turtles and their habitats. They chose May 23 to launch World Turtle Day, a date to “shellebrate” these resilient creatures and rally global support. The day was trademarked by Susan, ensuring its focus remained on conservation. Their goal was to educate people about the ecological roles of turtles cleaning beaches by eating dead fish, maintaining seagrass beds, or digging holes for other species and inspire action to protect them.
A Memorable Moment
One touching story from ATR’s early days involves a rescued box turtle named Mr. Mudd, who became a mascot for World Turtle Day in 2023 with the theme “I Love Turtles.” Found injured on a highway, Mr. Mudd was nursed back to health by ATR and released into a safe habitat. His story captivated schoolchildren during outreach programs, where Susan shared how turtles navigate using Earth’s magnetic field or survive centuries with their slow metabolism. Such tales made World Turtle Day relatable, encouraging kids to adopt turtles, volunteer, or avoid plastic pollution that harms sea turtles.
Global Impact and Celebration
World Turtle Day grew into a global movement, marked by events like turtle tagging at Sydney Aquarium (2011) and the release of rehabilitated turtles by wildlife centers. From dressing in green to cleaning nesting beaches, people worldwide join the “shellebration.” Susan and Marshall’s vision fueled by love for these ancient travelers continues to inspire, reminding us that even small actions can ensure turtles thrive for another 200 million years.