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 made real impacts in sa

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 turtles and tortois

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.