From humble beginnings to a global movement, World Turtle Day®marks its 25th anniversary this May 23, 2025. What started as a grassroots effort by American Tortoise Rescue (ATR) has grown into an international celebration of turtle and tortoise conservation, inspiring millions to take action to protect some of the world’s oldest—and most endangered—creatures. Over the past 25 years, ATR and its global community have notched countless Turtle Triumphs—victories that have mad

American Tortoise Rescue (ATR), a nonprofit organization established in 1990 to protect all species of tortoises and turtles, is “shellebrating” the 25th anniversary of World Turtle Day® on May 23! This year’s lively theme, “Dancing Turtles Rock,” reminds us to celebrate these remarkable creatures—but also asks the serious question: will they keep dancing if we don’t act now? While we’re putting on our dancing shoes, ATR is putting the spotlight on the growing threats pushing

Meet Tank, the gentle giant and unofficial intellectual of the American Tortoise Rescue sanctuary. A 27-year-old Sulcata tortoise, Tank weighs over 100 pounds and is known not only for his size but also for his smarts. He’s a staff favorite and truly lives up to his name—solid, dependable, and impossible to miss.

Spinner may be tiny, but she’s nothing short of a miracle. A very old three-toed box turtle, Spinner was the first special needs turtle to arrive at our sanctuary—and she’s been inspiring us every day since.

Popcorn—affectionately known as Poppy—is one of the most beloved and resilient residents of the sanctuary. A male Sulcata tortoise, Poppy came to us 24 years ago from a Chicago apartment where he had been fed rice cakes and popcorn (yes, really). Malnourished and severely misshapen from years of improper care, his early days were anything but easy.

Whether you’re new to our turtle-loving community or have been with us since the early days, there’s one shellebrity you absolutely must meet—Bunkle, the King of the Sanctuary! It all started 35 years ago with a call about a wandering Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina). Little did we know, this curious and fearless explorer would become the undeniable ruler of our hearts. From the moment he arrived, Bunkle took charge with a personality as bold as his beautifu

Get ready to meet the resident comedian  of the sanctuary— Evil , the Russian tortoise! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you mix...