The American Tortoise Rescue is a organization that was founded in 1990 in Malibu California.  This group founded National Turtle Day in 2000.  On this holiday the group wanted to call attention to some of the issues that threaten the turtle populations of the world today.  Here are some highlights that we thought might be interesting to point out.

What to do if you find a turtle that is healthy?:

If the turtle is not is any serious harm, then you should not attempt to move it.  It is also not a good idea to take a turtle home.  Taking the turtle away from its natural habitat can be harmful to the turtle.

What if this turtle is injured or sick?

Call the Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter at 252-240-1200.  Many times the turtle will not need medical attention.  If the turtle is injured, then it is a good idea to keep the turtle in a box(obviously sized according to the size of the turtle)

For more information, visit the Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter online, www.owlsonline.org.