Save Turtles, Save the Planet.
Turtles are essential to our ecosystems. Yet over half of their species face extinction. The time to act is now. Join us in our mission to protect these remarkable creatures and their environments.
OVERVIEW
Turtles have roamed the earth for millions of years. But today, they’re some of its most endangered inhabitants, under threat from habitat loss, climate change, and poachers. Founded in 2005, the Turtle Conservancy is dedicated to safeguarding vulnerable species, many of whom play key roles in ecosystem health and biodiversity. Together with our partners, we protect over 65 species and have preserved more than 70,000 acres of wildlife around the globe. Our holistic, 360° approach encompasses captive breeding, land conservation, field research, education, and community outreach.
[ Ojai Conservation Center ]
Galápagos Tortoise ( Chelonoidis niger )
Global Programs
The Turtle Conservancy has worked in over 17 countries to save turtles and other wildlife on the brink of extinction. We aim to not only protect turtles but also the integrity of their natural habitats, ensuring all species have space to thrive in the wild. Our efforts take the shape of land preservation, population monitoring, rewilding, and more. In some cases, we purchase and manage the land ourselves. In others, we provide support and funding to local partners. Each year, we expand our reach, adding new initiatives targeting species in need.
Conservation Center
Situated on 90 acres of pristine nature in Ojai, California, our conservation center provides care to over 600 turtles and 40 species, some of which are considered extinct in the wild.
Here, we focus on breeding to create assurance colonies in case disease, environmental disaster, or poaching should compromise wild populations. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the center furnishes our animals with naturalistic enclosures, organic meals, and daily check ups.
EDUCATION
Turtles are among the earth’s oldest and most fascinating living beings. The more you learn about them, the more you understand why they deserve our protection. We’ve developed a robust educational platform that includes classes at a local Ojai school, internships, a summer camp for urban youth, and grade-specific lesson modules.
AWARENESS
Our community outreach efforts span public speaking engagements, interactive workshops, and celebrity PSA campaigns. Our annual magazine, The Tortoise, features topics from the illicit turtle trade to the role of AI in conservation.
RESEARCH
Research is a cornerstone of our conservation strategy, providing valuable insights into the behavior, habitats, and overall well-being of turtles. Our expertise lies in conducting field studies, often in collaboration with universities, zoos, and global nonprofit organizations. In 2021, the Turtle Conservancy acquired the world's third-largest collection of turtle and tortoise specimens, comprising over 14,000 items, previously owned by the esteemed turtle conservationist, the late Dr. Peter Pritchard.
Membership
Join the Turtle Conservancy in our mission to protect endangered turtle and tortoise species worldwide. As a member, you’ll receive admission to our Ojai center, discounts at our gift shop and online store, and many other exclusive benefits. Your support directly contributes to vital initiatives such as habitat preservation, breeding programs, and scientific research, ensuring the survival of these animals for generations to come.
Aldabra Giant Tortoise
(Aldabrachelys gigantea)