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WATCH: Rescued Box Turtles Spotlighted for World Turtle Day

WATCH: Rescued Box Turtles Spotlighted for World Turtle Day

World Turtle Day, on May 23, encourages the public to honor turtles and protect them and their threatened habitats around the world. Celebrate by watching the story of Fletcher and Lionel, two box turtles who were rescued and are now enjoying their sanctuary home in Arizona.



Fletcher and Lionel have metabolic bone disease (MBD) from many past years of improper care. For 35 years they had lived indoors in a glass tank. Then in January of this year, they went to live at Desert Oasis Turtle & Tortoise Sanctuary (DOTTS) and a veterinarian trimmed their very overgrown beaks. They now get to live in the sunshine and fresh air with space to explore. It’s heartbreaking that these individuals were deprived of their natural life for so many years. But DOTTS is thrilled to give them a second chance and allow them to experience a life worth living. 

Please never remove turtles from the wild unless they are injured. Do not buy turtles from pet stores, which encourages demand from the wild, or from breeders because there are so many in need of rescue. Adopt, don't shop, and make sure to do your research on proper turtle care. Captive turtles belong in spacious outdoor habitats like the ones at DOTTS featured in this video. 

Find out more about World Turtle Day.

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