Western box turtle

© Tim Fitzharris/Minden Picture

Let’s protect our turtles. World Turtle Day

Characterised by the bright markings on their shells, western box turtles, such as the one seen here, are perhaps one of the most widely recognised turtle species. They are generally known to live for around 25 years but can survive up to 100 years. Some species of turtles most likely existed more than 100 million years ago. While turtles and tortoises outlived dinosaurs, more than half of all turtle and tortoise species are now on the verge of extinction. Today is World Turtle Day, so let’s celebrate these cute creatures and consider the vital role they play in our ecosystem.