Makayla Peppin-Sherwood has always been passionate about the natural world. From a young age, she could always be found playing in the mud, fishing with her dad, catching garter snakes, or stargazing. This passion led her to pursue a Bachelor’s in Physics with a concentration in Astronomy from the University of Central Florida, which she received in 2020.
During her undergraduate studies, Makayla worked for the Center for Lunar and Asteroid Surface Sciences, researching the geotechnical properties of regolith (space dirt) for ISRU applications. In 2023, she began her Master’s in Museum Studies at the University of Leicester where she is doing a dissertation on the role of museums in conservation.
Makayla’s passion for reptiles grew exponentially in 2020 when she got her first reptile, a bearded dragon named Mushu. This newfound passion, combined with her love for the natural world, led her to join the Turtle Survival Alliance in July 2023 as the Grants Manager.
In her free time, Makayla enjoys scuba diving, spending time with her husband and family, foraging, gardening, and volunteering with Advancing Herpetological Husbandry.
Join us for Turtle Month!
Why Turtles?
Found around the world in rivers, deserts, jungles, and our own backyards, it’s easy to assume tortoises and freshwater turtles will always be here. But the very traits that once helped them survive render them vulnerable to extinction today.
Our Initiatives
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Protecting the world’s most endangered tortoises and freshwater turtles
We All Play a Role.
To save turtles, we all play a role. Every day, tortoises and freshwater turtles around the globe face pressing threats. Your support equips us to support species where and how they need us most.
Turtles are ancient and remarkable creatures who deserve a champion. When you stand with us, you help ensure their continued survival. Together, we can create a world with zero turtle extinctions.
