The European term terrapin is believed to phonetically originate from torope, the word for turtle in the Powhatan tribe of the indigenous Algonquin peoples of coastal Virginia, United States. It would later be applied to the box turtle genus Terrapene, and to the Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin), the only turtle in the world to exclusively inhabit coastal brackish environments. In the genus Batagur, of which there are six species, this common name is applied to the three species whose habitat and activities include brackish rivers, estuaries, and coastal marine environments.
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.
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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.
