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| May 2005, we have rescued over 140 turtles and terrapins and 30 tortoises to date (23rd May 2011). World Turtle Day began because people needed to be made aware of the declining numbers or turtles and tortoises in the wild worldwide. These conservation issues need to be brought to peoples attention and highlight ways how individuals can protect these precious reptiles. We need to increase respect for and knowledge about one of the world’s oldest creatures. Approximately 200 million years ago did our shelled friends evolve and are of all shapes and sizes, they live on all the world’s continents and in all the world’s oceans, except the freezing polar regions. Yet they are rapidly disappearing as a result of the live food markets, habitat destruction and the cruel pet trade. There are 8 species of sea turtles, about 180 kinds of terrapins, and nearly 100 varieties of tortoises. The biggest turtle, the Leatherback Sea Turtle, can grow to 8 feet long and weigh 2,000 pounds. But experts predict the complete disappearance of some of these creatures within the next few years. Reptile Rescue Den recommend that adults and children do a few important things that can help to save turtles and tortoises for the next generation... Never buy an imported turtle or tortoise as it increases demand from the wild. Adopt from a rescue or buy from a UK breeder. Whilst on holiday do not support the cruel trade in tortoises and turtles from street traders. Please read our Tourist Awareness page for more info. Rescues are struggling to keep up with the demand on unwanted turtles and terrapins, so why not build a garden pond and have peace of mind that you too have played your part in rescuing and probably saving their lives. For further information read our Terrapin Education page. It's not just the UK that is struggling to keep up with the demand for Red Eared Terrapins / Sliders and Yellow Bellied Turtles / Sliders that need rescuing, please check out www.tortoise.com Please report anyone selling a tortoise (which is in the Annex A Tortoise Species List) without a certificate as they are required by law (DEFRA/CITES) to have a certificate (Article 10) proving their captive bred origin. This is to prevent the sale of wild tortoises, however often tortoises are found for sale in pet shops that have been imported from abroad where certificates are obtained illegally and these tortoises often carry diseases or where the tortoises have been smuggled into the UK, from the wild, and simply sold on to a member of the public who is unaware. If you have any concerns you should contact DEFRA Wildlife Licensing. Please help us to help them! Why not send your friends a World Turtle Day ecard and spread the word! Visit the Humane Society - World Turtle Day website for more detailed information on this campaign. |
