DYK? Today is World Turtle Day!

In The Spotlight

DYK? Today is World Turtle Day. Over 200 kinds of turtles are known in the world, with over 7 species (one invasive) in Nova Scotia!

The purpose of World Turtle Day, May 23 is to bring attention to, and increase knowledge of and respect for, turtles and tortoises, and encourage human action to help them survive and thrive.

Via the Museum of Natural History regarding species in NS: “Three of these are giant marine turtles: The Atlantic Loggerhead, the Atlantic Ridley, and the Atlantic Leatherback. These turtles are often seen from boats and do occasionally get tangled in fishing gear. While they do visit our waters every summer, these species nest in more tropical regions of the world. All marine turtles are considered endangered species.”

Sadly, several turtle species in Nova Scotia are at risk, including banding and snapping turtles. But with the help of the Nova Scotia Turtle Patrol, a local group dedicated to the preservation of turtle environments and awareness of our special little dinosaurs in Nova Scotia, and the help of all of us, these shelled little friends can have a chance to thrive. (Find the turtle patrol on Facebook for more information)

NS Turtle Patrol on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1467598523346553/?ref=share

Find out more from NS species at risk

https://novascotia.ca/natr/wildlife/species-at-risk/

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