2025 Impact Report

2025 IMPACT REPORT

We are devoted, curious, passionate people leading the charge to end turtle extinctions worldwide.

Our Mission

To protect and restore wild populations of turtles through science-based conservation, global leadership, and local stewardship.

Our Vision

A planet where turtles thrive in the wild, and are respected and protected by all humans.

Our Values

We

Dear Friends and Supporters of Turtle Survival Alliance,

On January 16, 2025, I received a message from our Madagascar Country Director that immediately captured the urgency of modern conservation:

“I am writing to inform you of the crisis situation at Lavavolo Tortoise Center.”

Within hours, catastrophic flooding engulfed the Lavavolo community and our facility, home to thousands of critically endangered Radiated (Astrochelys radiata) and Spider (Pyxis arachnoides) tortoises. Many members of the local community saw their homes swept away and their possessions destroyed. Despite their own losses and the fact that many could not swim, they waded through neckdeep floodwaters to help save tortoises.

Answering our call for emergency relief, colleagues, partners, and supporters from around the world mobilized immediately, helping us stabilize and care for more than 11,000 tortoises and ultimately beginning the work of rebuilding the center.

Moments like this remind us that conservation today requires both urgency and resilience. In 2025, Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) faced multiple challenges, including unexpected funding disruptions that threatened programs in several countries. Yet thanks to our partners and supporters, we not only sustained our work—we expanded it.

Today, TSA’s conservation programs impact over 160 turtle species and subspecies across more than 30 countries. Through this growing network, TSA continues to serve as a central hub for global turtle

Turtle Survival Alliance President & CEO Marc Dupuis-Desormeaux holds a Radiated Tortoise (Astrochelys radiata).

conservation—connecting science, field action, and community stewardship to safeguard the world’s most threatened turtles.

This year also demonstrated the growing importance of rapid-response conservation. When more than 2,000 trafficked turtles were seized in Mexico, including the critically endangered Vallarta Mud Turtle (Kinosternon vogti), TSA joined forces with Zoológico Guadalajara and international partners to stabilize the animals and incorporate them into the zoo’s assurance colony, helping safeguard one of the world’s rarest turtles.

Across the pages that follow, you will see many examples of this collaborative approach in action, from the rewilding of endangered Red-footed Tortoises (Chelonoidis carbonarius) in Colombia to community-led conservation initiatives in Madagascar that are creating new sustainable livelihoods.

We are also proud to share that Natalia Gallego-García, TSA’s Director of Conservation Genetics, has been named co-chair of the IUCN SSC Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group, strengthening TSA’s leadership role within the global turtle conservation community.

That spirit of collaboration was further reflected at the 2025 TSA/TFTSG joint Annual Symposium on the Conservation and Biology of Tortoises and Freshwater Turtles, held in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The event brought together conservationists from around the world to share knowledge and strengthen partnerships. We are grateful to the Tennessee Aquarium for hosting this important global convening.

Looking ahead, the future of turtle conservation will depend on stronger international collaboration, innovative science such as genomics and conservation breeding, and deeper partnerships with the communities who share their landscapes with these species.

In a world where environmental challenges are becoming more complex and unpredictable, partnerships matter more than ever. We exist because of a global community of supporters who believe extinction is not inevitable—and who are committed to protecting turtles in the wild.

In conservation,

Marc Dupuis-Desormeaux President & CEO

Turtle Survival Alliance: By the Numbers

The data presented reflects January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025.

160+

Species and subspecies worked with 30+

Countries with Turtle Survival Alliance presence 7,100+

Hatchlings produced 7,300+

Turtles released into the wild 13,300+

Volunteers & community members engaged

260+

Education and outreach offerings held 35+

Scientific manuscripts produced 80+

National and international presentations given 500+

Students collaborated on conservation research projects 300+

Attendees to the 23rd Annual Symposium on the Conservation and Biology of Tortoises and Freshwater Turtles

Current Project Locations

• Argentina

• Australia

• Bangladesh

• Belize

• Bolivia

• Brazil

• Burkina Faso

• Cambodia

• Canada

• Colombia

• Costa Rica

• Egypt

• El Salvador

• Guatemala

• India

• Indonesia

• Kenya

• Madagascar

• Malawi

• Malaysia

• Mexico

• Myanmar

• Paraguay

• Peru

• South Africa

• South Sudan

• Sudan

• Uganda

• Thailand

• Togo

• United States

• Vietnam

Target Project Locations

• Benin

• China

• Côte d'Ivoire

• Ghana

• Japan

• Liberia

• Mali

• Nicaragua

• Niger

• Nigeria

• Panama

• Tanzania

• Venezuela

• Zambia

The United States of America and Canada

Population Monitoring, Captive Breeding, & Education and Outreach

In 2025, TSA Volunteer Science and U.S. Field Projects continued research on 23 freshwater turtle species and subspecies across five states, while laying the groundwork for future studies in Canada. Volunteers and field teams conducted population monitoring and habitat assessments, providing critical baseline population data and guiding species recovery. These efforts strengthened long-term research and conservation, supported local partnerships, and advanced the protection of freshwater turtles in the U.S. and Canada, ranging in conservation status from Least Concern to Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Located in Cross, South Carolina, USA, the Turtle Survival Center (TSC) was founded to support our vision of Zero Turtle Extinctions® worldwide. 2025 was a successful year—both for the turtles hatched and the growth of our team. We continue developing our facilities to effectively support and manage populations of 27 endangered and critically endangered species.

Conservation, Chelonian Care, & Education

The success of the TSC relies on a dedicated and skilled team. This year, we expanded our staff by adding two new Chelonian Keeper positions and welcoming Veterinarian Dr. Shane Boylan to provide expert care for more than 850 resident turtles.

Continuing our commitment to education, we hosted our third annual Chelonian Biology, Conservation, and Management Course, sponsored by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums Chelonian Advisory Group. Participants learned best practices

for chelonian care and husbandry through hands-on field labs with expert biologists and professors, featuring activities such as telemetry demonstrations, breeding encounters, and a necropsy.

Our staff also engage the local community through workshops at schools and libraries, tours of the TSC for visiting groups, as well as participating in scientific research with other NGOs and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. These efforts ensure that the TSC remains not only a sanctuary for turtles but also a center for learning, conservation, and inspiration for all who visit.

Association of Zoos and Aquariums Accreditation

Our facility continues to achieve the highest industry standards. This year, the TSC passed its second accreditation since 2018 as a related facility of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. We take great pride in our dedicated staff and excellence in chelonian care.

Left to right: Dr. Shane Boylan works in the Greenhouse Complex. Photo by Vanessa Ambas; Participants from the Chelonian Biology, Conservation, and Management Course learn how to measure turtles for data collection in the field. Photo by Liz Kimbrough for Mongabay; A hatchling Beale’s Eyed Turtle (Sacalia bealei). Photo by Elena Duran

SPECIES SPOTLIGHT: Beale's Eyed Turtle (Sacalia bealei)

The Beale’s Eyed Turtle inhabits clear mountain streams under dense forest canopy, relying on specialized microhabitats. Endemic to China, wild populations have declined due to collection for trade and habitat destruction. In 2025, the TSC produced eight hatchlings, bringing the total to 36 since 2014—an important contribution for a dwindling species that typically produces only one nest per year containing one to three eggs.

Volunteer Science

The TSA Volunteer Science program engaged well over 200 volunteers, including more than 75 students, in conservation research on 18 freshwater turtle species across ten study sites in Florida, South Carolina, Texas, and Washington. Projects included monitoring species assemblages in freshwater spring systems and Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin) populations and nesting in coastal brackish estuaries, providing critical data to guide longterm research and conservation. Read more on our website:

insert a PIT tag into a Florida Softshell Turtle (Apalone ferox) in

by Bill Hawthorne; The TSA Volunteer Science program and U.S. Field Projects engaged over 300 volunteers and scientists, including 80 students, researching 23 freshwater turtle species across 17 study sites nationwide (see map below).

Turtle Survival Alliance Canada

We are excited to share that TSA Canada (TSAC) launched in 2025 to help secure a future for some of the world’s most threatened turtles. Through ecosystem conservation and restoration, TSAC works to safeguard turtles and their habitats for the benefit of both wildlife and people. Learn more at turtlesurvival.ca.

Conservation Genetics

The Atlas of Turtle Genomes for Conservation

Turtles and tortoises are among the world’s most threatened vertebrates, and illegal trafficking continues to accelerate their decline. This year, we launched the Atlas of Turtle Genomes for Conservation (ATGC) with the University of California, Los Angeles to address this problem. ATGC is a nationwide initiative designed to help return confiscated turtles to the wild safely. By generating detailed genetic maps across species’ native ranges, ATGC can pinpoint the geographic origin

of trafficked turtles. This genomic “roadmap” guides scientifically informed repatriation and reveals poaching hotspots, helping law enforcement and conservation agencies focus efforts where they are needed most while supporting the recovery of wild turtle populations.

Reference Genomes for Conservation

A reference genome is a complete map of an organism’s DNA that scientists use to assemble and interpret genetic data from other individuals of the same species. Many turtle species still lack these resources, making their development an important step for conservation. TSA’s Conservation Genetics

Program and multiple partners are working to complete genomes for more than 40 species. Publicly available reference genomes allow researchers worldwide to detect inbreeding, measure genetic diversity, identify unique lineages, and study how turtles adapt to their environments. By providing a shared genetic resource, TSA aims to expand global capacity for conservation genetics and support more effective, science-based recovery efforts. Visit our Genomics webpage for more information on these efforts:

The Yellow-blotched Map Turtle (Graptemys flavimaculata) is one of over 40 species included in the Reference Genomes for Conservation project.

Mexico and Central America

Surveys, Genetics, & Community Engagement

Mexico and Central America are global biodiversity hotspots crucial for turtle diversity, and are facing rapid, unchecked development and knowledge gaps for many species, including unknown distributions and population trends. TSA is addressing this by conducting preliminary surveys across all countries to establish presence/absence, verify historic ranges, assess relative abundance and threats, and collect vital genetic samples to evaluate taxonomic units—all critical steps for effective conservation.

Mexico

In Chiapas, Mexico, we partner with PhD student Eduardo Reyes Grajales to generate critical ecological and demographic data, assess conservation status, and establish community-based monitoring programs for many turtle species, including the Central American River Turtle (Dermatemys mawii). Working alongside local communities, Eduardo is making important contributions to chelonian conservation in the region. His remarkable field effort in 2025 resulted in the documentation of over 425 individual turtles and more than 55 interviews with community members. This immense undertaking provided valuable data on turtle populations in Chiapas, as well as critical accounts from local people on historic populations and recent declines.

CONSERVATION PARTNER: Estudiantes Conservando la Naturaleza

This was an exciting year for TSA and our partner Estudiantes Conservando la Naturaleza (ECN). In Sonora, we documented wild hatchling Spotted Box Turtles (Terrapene nelsoni), marking a momentous first for the species. In Jalisco, we made significant progress to save the Vallarta Mud Turtle (Kinosternon vogti). We countered habitat destruction by constructing a protective barrier around a critical site. Recognizing that habitat protection must be paired with enforcement, we formalized efforts with local authorities to strengthen antipoaching efforts and patrols. This work is essential to ensuring the survival of this critically endangered species in a rapidly changing landscape.

In 2025, we expanded our Mexican turtle conservation efforts to the Calakmul region in the state of Campeche. There, TSA partners with ECN and local PhD student Carlos Mauricio Delgado Martínez. His work focuses on two priorities: determining population sizes for seven local turtle species and developing a road-mortality mitigation plan in collaboration with nearby communities.

Guatemala

In partnership with the Philadelphia Zoo and local researchers, we’ve launched an exciting multiinstitutional project to study the population ecology, health, and distribution of mud and musk turtles in Guatemala. By conducting surveys, collecting health samples, and performing genetic testing, we are using data-driven methods to guide our conservation strategy for these understudied turtle species.

Félix García Caballero

Estudiantes Conservando la Naturaleza

“The work we do matters because through the constant monitoring of turtles, we can anticipate risks, understand what they need to survive, and act in time to ensure their conservation.” - Félix García Caballero

Conservation Genetics

Genomics of Central American Turtles

TSA and partners across the region have begun unraveling the taxonomic puzzles of Central America’s understudied turtles. Read the story in our 2024/2025 Turtle Survival magazine for the details:

South America

Population Monitoring, Genetics, & Reintroduction

Across South America, TSA is evaluating the taxonomic status of Red-footed Tortoises (Chelonoidis carbonarius) and Chaco Tortoises (Chelonoidis chilensis), conducting comprehensive range-wide and countrywide surveys for priority species, monitoring populations across the continent, and initiating critical reintroduction programs. A priority country for TSA efforts is Colombia, where we partner with Wildlife Conservation Society Colombia (WCS) to protect and monitor the Dahl’s Toad-headed Turtle (Mesoclemmys dahli) and Magdalena River Turtle (Podocnemis lewyana) through surveys, community engagement, nest protection, and more.

Colombia

CORPOMOJANA, with support from TSA and Wildlife Conservation Society Colombia, reintroduced 20 confiscated Red-footed Tortoises (Chelonoidis carbonarius), an Endangered (in press) species, into La Carranchina Natural Reserve. The 544-acre (220 ha) reserve was designated a Key Biodiversity Area in 2024. Representing the first scientifically guided repatriation of the species in the country, the program followed soft-release protocols, with each tortoise assessed for health, genetics, and post-release behavior. This release also marks the first step in developing a national reintroduction plan for the species.

This page, top to bottom: Red-footed Tortoises (Chelonoidis carbonarius).

Photos courtesy of Wildlife Conservation Society Colombia

Marjorie Pinzon

Lead Turtle Researcher, WCS Colombia

“I feel grateful to lead the team advancing the conservation of turtles in my country. Protecting these species demands strong collaboration and ongoing innovation to effectively meet conservation challenges.”

- Marjorie Pinzon

Photo by Scott Trageser

Conservation Genetics

Untangling Chaco Tortoise Taxonomy

The Chaco Tortoise (Chelonoidis chilensis) inhabits Argentina, Paraguay, and Bolivia across the Monte and Dry Chaco, which vary in climate and habitat. Populations may be genetically distinct even if they look similar. Scientists have debated whether the species is one species or several, and mitochondrial DNA hints at two groups, but it cannot fully resolve species boundaries. This project, led by TSA and partners from all three countries, uses whole-genome sequencing across the tortoise’s full range to identify lineages, link them to habitat differences, and detect local adaptation. Understanding these patterns is vital for conservation, guiding management, and ensuring confiscated tortoises are returned to their correct region.

Hidden Diversity in the Red-footed Tortoise

The Red-footed Tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonarius) ranges across 11+ countries in diverse habitats, from flooded savannas to arid forests. Despite this, it has long been treated as a single taxon. Individuals vary in color, shape, and size, and early genetic evidence suggests that multiple divergent lineages exist. This project, led by TSA and multiple partners, provides the most comprehensive genetic assessment to date, combining whole-genome resequencing across major ecoregions. The goal is to identify distinct lineages, clarify evolutionary history, and define conservation units. This information guides strategies to protect populations facing habitat loss, hunting, and the pet trade, and ensures conservation reflects the species’ true biological diversity.

Asia & Australia

Conservation Breeding, Surveys, & Community Engagement

The intense exploitation of turtles in Asian markets has driven population declines across the continent. Three-quarters of Asia’s turtles are threatened, and half are endangered, though these numbers may be higher as many species remain understudied. TSA and its partners are working to fill taxonomic knowledge gaps, address poaching, maintain assurance colonies of critically endangered species, reintroduce headstarted turtles and tortoises into protected areas, and other conservation actions.

In Australia, as a follow-up to national planning meetings, we are collaborating with researchers to address missing population data for the Pig-nosed Turtle (Carettochelys insculpta) and fill critical knowledge gaps for other lesserunderstood species.

Bangladesh

Menrua Mro

Senior Field Assistant, Creative Conservation

Alliance

“I initially supported the team by translating with local villagers. Coming from a community where these species were once hunted, I now feel proud to see my people protecting them.” - Menrua Mro

Indigenous Mro parabiologists trained by TSA’s partner Creative Conservation Alliance (CCA) led the tracking of captive-bred Elongated (Indotestudo elongata) and Asian Giant (Manouria emys phayrei) tortoises released in 2024, demonstrating the vital role of local communities in conservation. All released tortoises are adjusting to the wild. To support these communities, we introduced a livestock vaccination program in Sangu-Matamuhuri Reserve Forest. At the Tortoise Conservation Center and the Shrine of Bayazid Bostami, conservation breeding continued in stride, producing over 50 hatchlings, and, in collaboration with local authorities, CCA supported the release of 250 confiscated Indian Roof Turtles (Pangshura tecta) to their natural habitat.

Left to right: Parabiologists work with Asian Giant Tortoises (Manouria emys phayrei) in the field in Bangladesh.

Photo courtesy of Creative Conservation Alliance; Asian Narrowheaded Softshell Turtle (Chitra chitra).

Photo by Doug Hendrie

Cambodia

The Angkor Center for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) and TSA achieved significant conservation breeding success in Cambodia in 2025. Twenty-four critically endangered Yellow-headed Temple Turtles (Heosemys annandalii) hatchlings emerged, a 60% improvement over the previous year. Southern River Terrapin (Batagur affinis) reproduction reached a record, with 12 hatchlings plus three juveniles unknowingly hatched in 2024. Nine Southern River Terrapin hatchlings from 2024 were sent to Koh Kong Reptile Conservation Center for headstarting and eventual release. Additionally, 156 Elongated Tortoises (Indotestudo elongata) were produced, our second largest annual total, and post-release monitoring of 2023 translocations continues to provide valuable reintroduction data.

For years, alongside partners Wildlife Conservation Society Cambodia and Mandai Nature, we have supported local protectors guarding nests of the Asian Giant Softshell Turtle (Pelochelys cantorii) along the Mekong River. Read the full story in our 2024/2025 edition of Turtle Survival magazine:

Thailand

In 2025, with lead organizations Turtle Sanctuary Conservation Center (TSCC; France) and Institute for Development Ecology, Conservation and Cooperation (IDECC; Italy), we initiated surveys with local partners for the critically endangered Asian Narrow-headed Softshell Turtle (Chitra chitra). The

world’s largest freshwater turtle is poorly known regarding its ecology and population status, with the last known scientific record over 20 years ago. Transects and interviews with local fishermen resulted in the documentation of 28 records, providing critical data on remaining populations.

Malaysia

CONSERVATION PARTNER:

Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia

The Turtle Conservation Society (TCS), a key TSA partner, achieved major conservation milestones for the critically endangered Southern River Terrapin (Batagur affinis) in Malaysia. TCS protected over 1,800 eggs from human consumption, 300 more than the previous year, resulting in the successful hatching of more than 1,300 turtles. This effort resulted in their largest release of Southern River Terrapins, a critical achievement for a species with fewer than 1,000 adults remaining in the wild.

CONSERVATION PARTNER: PULIHARA

We launched a partnership with the marine conservation organization PULIHARA in 2025 to survey nesting sites in Terengganu, Malaysia, shared by Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas) and critically endangered Painted Terrapins (Batagur borneoensis), integrating freshwater and marine turtle conservation. Nightly beach patrols monitored nesting females and safeguarded eggs, while authorized collectors transported eggs to a safe hatchery. These efforts resulted in the protection of eight Painted Terrapin nests and the identification of 10 unique adults.

Top to bottom: Community members releasing Southern River Terrapin hatchlings (Batagur affinis) in Malaysia. Photo courtesy of Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia; A Painted Terrapin (Batagur borneoensis) being measured in the field. Photo courtesy of PULIHARA

Deb Bower

Our work expanded to Australia in 2025 with multiple partners supporting many native species in need. In partnership with the Burnett Mary Regional Group for Natural Resource Management (BMRG), we established a new conservation initiative to support the Mary River Turtle (Elusor macrurus) and the White-throated Snapping Turtle (Elseya albagula). This work will include genomic research for species recovery strategies, community-based habitat restoration, national turtle conservation workshop facilitation, and integration of traditional ecological knowledge.

We also began supporting Dr. Sean Doody of the University of South Florida to resample Pig-nosed Turtles (Carettochelys insculpta) microchipped during his PhD research in the late 1990s. Now more than 25 years after their first capture, these long-lived individuals reveal remarkably slow growth over decades. Recaptures from this study provide critical insights into their life history, guiding conservation strategies and informing government status assessments to help ensure the species’ survival. Australia

University of New England (Australia); Pig-nosed Turtle Project

“Long-term research is the foundation of effective conservation. By studying Pignosed Turtles across years and generations, we can uncover the ecological patterns needed to protect them and their rivers.”

- Deb Bower

Sean Doody

University of South Florida, St. Petersburg; Pig-nosed Turtle Project

“Pig-nosed Turtles are being heavily poached in New Guinea, focusing the attention on Australian populations as the stronghold for the species' conservation."

- Sean Doody

Africa

Reintroduction, Surveys, & Community Engagement

Across Africa, TSA implements species-focused conservation projects for highly threatened turtles and tortoises. Our work spans field surveys, direct interventions, habitat protection, and community engagement with local partners and stakeholders. Initiatives such as the Great Tortoise Transect, which crosses six countries in West Africa, exemplify this approach. The primary goals of our efforts across the continent are to assess species’ status, restore wild populations, and safeguard the habitats essential to their long-term survival.

Madagascar

For over 15 years, TSA has worked to protect the tortoises of Madagascar, and 2025 was no exception. This year, we reintroduced 5,000 Radiated Tortoises (Astrochelys radiata) into community-protected areas. We also signed or renewed conservation agreements with five community associations, forged new partnerships with local and international stakeholders, launched five eco-friendly livelihood programs for supporting communities, and rescued more than 3,000 tortoises from the illegal wildlife trade. Alongside these successes, we

faced and overcame enormous challenges. From January to March, our Lavavolo Tortoise Center (LTC) was hit by unprecedented flooding as a result of three consecutive tropical cyclones. Read the full recovery story in our 2024/2025 edition of Turtle Survival magazine:

Mitia

Andrianantenaina Veterinary Assistant, TSA Madagascar

“Being a wildlife veterinarian in Madagascar means standing where conservation becomes real, caring for individuals whose survival carries the future of entire species.” - Mitia Andrianantenaina

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: Supporting Alternative Livelihoods

Our greatest impact comes from partnering with communities, creating benefits for both local people and the tortoises we are sworn to protect. Nowhere is this collaborative success more apparent than in Madagascar. This year, we piloted five alternative livelihood programs: black soldier

fly farming, biochar, soap making, jam making, and beekeeping to support communities committed to tortoise conservation. Together, these programs have already begun generating revenue, directly rewarding families for protecting these endangered animals.

Tahina Rasolofoherisoa

Project Manager, TSA Madagascar

“Eight-year-old me could never have imagined that today I’d be protecting endangered tortoises with a passionate and multidisciplinary team, inspiring communities to act, and I’m deeply grateful for this journey.”

- Tahina Rasolofoherisoa

Conservation Genetics

Uncovering Lineages in the Spider Tortoise

TSA’s Conservation Genetics Program leads a project analyzing the three subspecies of the critically endangered Spider Tortoise (Pyxis arachnoides) of Madagascar. Using whole-genome sequencing, the project provides the most detailed look at whether these groups are true subspecies, distinct species, or just local populations.

Rindra Navalona Rakotobe

Veterinary Assistant, TSA Madagascar

“Don’t worry, the tortoises are safe in my hands. I will protect them and ensure their safe return to the wild where they belong.”

- Rindra Navalona Rakotobe

“Protecting the Pancake Tortoise starts with empowering communities. Through awareness and partnership, we are strengthening local stewardship to secure the future of this unique and highly threatened species.”

- Mercy Kinya

Kenya

Four years after targeted surveys began for the critically endangered Pancake Tortoise (Malacochersus tornieri), TSA and partners launched the National Recovery and Conservation Action Plan in Kenya (2025–2035). The plan currently engages 13 community conservancies and targets five counties, demonstrating what communities and scientists can

achieve to protect the species. Read the guest feature in our 2024/2025 edition of Turtle Survival magazine for details on this effort:

Burkina Faso & Togo

We support PhD student Emmanuel Amétépé Hounmavo in assessing turtle and tortoise populations across the critical transition zone between the Sudanian savanna and Guinean forest–savanna mosaic in Burkina Faso and Togo. Using terrestrial and aquatic surveys,

market visits, and community interviews, he has documented eight species, including two previously undocumented in Togo. Emmanuel’s findings provide essential data to guide future conservation planning in this ecologically important region.

South Africa

We focused on both regional and local conservation initiatives this year. Regionally, we partnered with multiple stakeholders to conduct a comprehensive review of research and conservation priorities for all southern African turtle and tortoise species. Locally, north of Johannesburg, we launched a pilot project to study the life history of Leopard Tortoises (Stigmochelys pardalis) and Lobatse Hinge-back Tortoises (Kinixys lobatsiana), while simultaneously initiating population supplementation in a protected area where tortoises had been effectively extirpated.

Emmanuel Amétépé Hounmavo

PhD Student, University of Lomé

“Conservation of turtles in Togo is essential to preserve biodiversity and to strengthen the engagement of local communities in protecting these threatened species.” - Emmanuel Amétépé Hounmavo

Field Conservation Partners

Our progress this year was made possible through the dedicated efforts of our partners, whose local expertise turned our shared vision into a measurable reality.

ARGENTINA

Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)

Instituto de Investigaciones en Biodiversidad y Medioambiente (INIBIOMA)

AUSTRALIA

Burnett Mary Regional Group for Natural Resource Management

Heinrich Ecological Services

University of New England

University of South Florida, St. Petersburg

BANGLADESH

Bangladesh Forest Department

Creative Conservation Alliance

BELIZE

Belize Foundation for Research & Environmental Education

Savanna Field Station

SWCA Environmental Consultants

Wildlife Conservation Society Belize

BOLIVIA

Red para la Conservación de Tortugas de Bolivia

Wildlife Conservation Society Bolivia

BRAZIL

O Centro de Referência em Educação Ambiental e Desenvolvimento

Sustentável (CREADS)

Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul

Universidade Federal do Amazonas

Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso

Universidade Federal do Tocantins

BURKINA FASO

Agbo-Zegue NGO

Institute for Development, Ecology, Conservation and Cooperation University of Lomé

CAMBODIA

Angkor Center for Conservation of Biodiversity

Wildlife Conservation Society Cambodia

CANADA

York University

Ontario Turtle Conservation Center

COLOMBIA

Wildlife Conservation Society Colombia

COSTA RICA

CRWild

Turtle Love

Organization for Tropical Studies

EGYPT

Zaranik Protected Area

EL SALVADOR

Elizabeth Monserrath Coto Hernandez

Pearson McGovern

Vladlen Ernesto Henriquez Cisneros

GERMANY

Museum of Zoology, Senckenberg Natural History Collections Dresden

GUATEMALA

Gladys Porter Zoo

Philadelphia Zoo

Universidad del Valle de Guatemala

Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala

INDIA

Wildlife Trust of India

INDONESIA

Satucita Foundation

KENYA

Kenya Wildlife Service

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

National Museums of Kenya

MADAGASCAR

Alliance Voahary Gasy

Association Voron-kodohodo & Radio Hodohodo

Bureau Indépendant Anti-Corruption

Cantonnement des Eaux et Forêts, Région Atsimo Andrefana

Centre National de Formation, d'Etudes et de Recherche en Environnement et Forestier

Commune Rurale Itampolo

Communes Nikoly & Marovato

Coopérative Rene Miray Hevetse

Coopérative TSARAJORO

Direction Régionale de l'Agriculture et de l'Elevage Région Androy

Direction Régionale de l'Agriculture et de l'Elevage Région Atsimo-Andrefana

Direction Régionale de l'Education Nationale Région Androy

Direction Régionale de l'Education Nationale Région Atsimo-Andrefana

Direction Régionale de l'Environnement et du Développement

Durable Androy

Direction Régionale de l'Environnement et du Développement

Durable Atsimo-Andrefana

Direction Unité de Lutte Contre la Corruption/Ministère de l'Environnement et du Développement Durable

Ecole Supérieure des Sciences Agronomiques, Université d'Antananarivo

Ecole des Sciences et de Médecine Véterinaire (Veterinary School), Université d'Antananarivo

Eden Botanical Garden

EOKY Club

Fokontany Itampolo

Fokontany Besakoa & Tamonto Sud

Gendarmerie Nationale

Graine de vie

Institut Supérieur Polytechnique de Madagascar

Kinaleo Mada

Madagascar AGRO PRODUCTS and CONSULTS SARL

Madagascar Biodiversity Center

Madagascar National Parks

Mahaliana Lab

Mention Zoologie et Biologie Animale, Université d'Antananarivo

Ministère de l'Environnement et du Développement Durable

Projet PROGRES

Ravinala Airports

Region Atsimo-Andrefana

Région Androy

Reserve Berenty

SOS Tortues/Mangily

Vision Madagascar

VOI Ambatosarotra

VOI MAHAZOARIVO

VOI Malaintsatroka

VOI MILAMINTSOA

Women Rise Wildlife Research

MALAWI

Institute for Development, Ecology, Conservation and Cooperation

Wildlife and Environmental Society of Malawi

Lake Malawi National Park

Biological Sciences Department, Malawi University of Science and Technology

MALAYSIA

PULIHARA

Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia

MEXICO

Eduardo Reyes Grajales

Estudiantes Conservando la Naturaleza, A.C.

Zoológico Guadalajara

MYANMAR

Myanmar Biodiversity Fund

PARAGUAY

Guyra Paraguay

Universidad Nacional de Asunción

PERU

Instituto de Investigaciones de la Amazonía Peruana

SOUTH AFRICA

Endangered Wildlife Trust

Entabeni Game Reserve

North-West University

SOUTH SUDAN

Institute for Development, Ecology, Conservation and Cooperation

University of Juba

SUDAN

Institute for Development, Ecology, Conservation and Cooperation

UGANDA

Institute for Development, Ecology, Conservation and Cooperation

NICE Planet

Nature Uganda

THAILAND

Inland Fisheries Research and Development Institute, Kanchanaburi Province

Institute for Development, Ecology, Conservation and Cooperation

Turtle Sanctuary Conservation Center (France)

TOGO

Institute for Development, Ecology, Conservation and Cooperation University of Lomé

UNITED STATES

AZA SAFE: American Turtle program

EcolSciences, Inc.

Eric Munscher

Flagler College

Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Florida State Parks

Friends of Talbot Islands State Parks

Gary Standard

Jacksonville University

Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Garden

Joe Pignatelli

Kern-Ralph Co-lab, University of Oregon

Laura Newgard

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection – Fish & Wildlife

Seattle Parks and Recreation

Sethuraman Lab, San Diego State University

Shaffer Lab, University of California, Los Angeles

Shannon Letcher

SWCA Environmental Consultants

Tabitha Hootman

The University of the South (Sewanee)

United States Geological Survey

United States Army Corps of Engineers

Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife

VIETNAM

Institute for Development, Ecology, Conservation and Cooperation

Turtle Sanctuary Conservation Center (France)

Vietnam National University of Forestry (VNUF)

Thank You to Our Donors!

We acknowledge the following individuals and organizations who have donated to support TSA between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025.

$100,000+

Alan and Patricia Koval Foundation

Anonymous (2)

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Global Environment Facility

Wildlife Conservation Society/Bronx Zoo

William H. Donner Foundation

$50,000-$99,999

Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund

Dennler Family

Marc Dupuis-Desormeaux and Susan Rimmer

Samuel Freeman Charitable Trust

The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund

The Arthur L. and Elaine V. Johnson Foundation

$25,000-$49,999

Aktionsgemeinschaft Artenschutz (AGA) e.V.

Anonymous

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

International Fund for Animal Welfare, Inc.

Sandra J. Moss

Tortuga Foundation

$10,000-$24,999

Anna B. Milburn Charitable Trust

British Chelonia Group

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Dallas Zoo

David and Jean Hutchison

Detroit Zoo

Disney's Animal Kingdom

Ed Neil

Felburn Foundation

Fonseca Species Conservation Fund

Hempel Foundation

Houston Zoo

John Iverson

Merck Animal Health

Meredith Keen

Mike Penko

Milwaukee County Zoo

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

The Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation

The Daniel & Nicole Voss Charitable Fund

Turtle Back Zoo (Zoological Society of New Jersey, Inc.)

Turtle Conservation Fund

Virginia Zoo in Norfolk

William and Jeanne Dennler

Zoo Atlanta

Zoo Knoxville

Zoofari Parks (Virginia Safari Park, Gulf Breeze Zoo, Alabama Safari Park, Texas Zoofari Park)

$5,000-$9,999

Benjamin Samann

Birmingham Zoo

Cedarhurst Foundation

Christian Fischer

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

Coastal Wildlife Club, Inc.

Colleen Diles

Fort Wayne Children's Zoo

Fort Worth Zoo

Gail Gazda

Iguanaland

John Ball Zoo

Justin Congdon & Nancy Dickson Research Fund (Turtle Ecology Fund)

Little Ray's Reptile Centre

Little Rock Zoo

Martin Schur

Maryland Zoo

Michael Kilham

Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden

Patricia & Stuart Salenger Foundation

Peter Warny

Re:wild

Roger Schat

Sedgwick County Zoo

South Bow

Toronto Zoo

Whit Gibbons

Whitney Green

William and Elisabeth Parker

William and Kathleen Holmstrom

$1,000-$4,999

Aaron Dodson

Allison Alberts

Anders Rhodin

Andrew Sabin Family Foundation

Angela and Andrew Walde

Animal Survival International

Anthony Magliero

Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum

Australasian Society of Zoo Keeping

AZA Chelonian Taxon Advisory Group

Baltimore Community Foundation

Belize Foundation for Research & Environmental Education (BFREE)

Betsy Greenlee

Bob Davey

Bold City Brewery

Bradley R. Tuminello

Brett Stearns

Brevard Zoo

Brodsky Charitable Foundation Trust

Brookfield Zoo Chicago (Chicago Zoological Society)

Bruce Weber

Bruce Weissgold

Cameron Park Zoological & Botanical Society

Carol Wilen

Carrie Hernandez

Catoctin Wildlife Preserve

Celeste Muller

Charleston Cotton Exchange

Columbus AAZK Chapter

Crystal Woodward

Curt L. Fuhrmann

Dallas World Aquarium

Daniel Pearson

Danielle and Will Ahrens Charitable Fund

David Crews and Andrea Gore Charitable Fund

Deborah Behler

Detroit AAZK Chapter

Diane Yoshimi

Dickerson Park Zoo

Douglas Trainor

Drayton Manor Resort Limited

Elizabeth "Lee" Manigault

Elizabeth C. Bonner Foundation

Ellen Anderson

Erin and Matt Patterson

Frank Slavens

Friends of The Rosamond Gifford Zoo

Fundacja Zoo Wrocław – DODO

Gary Larson

George Heinrich

Georgia Sea Turtle Center

Greenville Zoo

Haus des Meeres Aqua Terra Zoo

Holohil Systems Ltd.

Howells Family Fund

Janis Gerrits

Jeff Mace

Jeffery Ettling

Jeffrey Bruninga

Jena McLaughlin

Johannes Els

Josh Dale and Ilana Miller

Judy Schuerholz

Justin Congdon

Ken Dodd

Kristin Berry

Lehigh Valley Zoo

Linda Stein

Lisa Kole

Luther King Capital Management

Magnetic Hill Zoo

Margery "Spike" Gram

Mary Ting

Michael Hasselbring

Michael Stepniewski

Mike Hess Brewing

Milwaukee AAZK Chapter

Moody Gardens, Inc.

Nancy Karraker

Neil Bruyere

North Carolina Zoological Society

Parken Zoo

Patricia Koval

Paul Gerard III and Jacqueline Gerard

Paul Licht

Peter Paul van Dijk

Phoenix Zoo (Arizona Center for Nature Conservation)

Plzeň Zoo

R. Regis Opferman

Rhonda Ruffino

Rob Reiley

Robert and Denise Krause

Robin de Bled

Robin Elliott

Rolling Hills Zoo

Ryan Filler

Saginaw Children's Zoo

Saint Louis AAZK Chapter

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo

Sonotronics

Southern Packaging, Inc.

Stahl Exotic Animal Veterinary Services

Susanne and Harold Wahlquist

SWCA Environmental Consultants

Sy Montgomery

Tatyana Elefante

Tennessee Aquarium

The Arne Lillehamer Foundation

The Garcia Family Charitable Fund

The Quixotic Fund

The Walden-Pound Charitable Fund

Tom Motlow

Turtle Conservancy

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Woodland Park Zoo

Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park

IN KIND*

Alexandra Garcia

Animex International

Belize Foundation for Research & Environmental Education (BFREE)

Bradley Trevor Greive

Chattanooga Zoo

Erin and Matt Patterson

Georgia Sea Turtle Center

Mazuri Exotic Animal Nutrition

Merck Animal Health

Mississippi Aquarium

Oatland Island Wildlife Center

Patricia Koval

SWCA Environmental Consultants

Tennessee Aquarium

TracksData Solutions

LEGACY CIRCLE MEMBERS

Christine Nassikas

Frank Slavens

Gregory Family Charitable Fund

John Carr

Lori Romein

Marc Dupuis-Desormeaux and Susan Rimmer

Patricia Koval

Rick Hudson

Robert Krause

Sheila and John Iverson

Susanne and Harold Wahlquist

*Value of $1,000 or more

Zoo and Aquarium Partners

Zoos and aquariums that have contributed a cumulative total of $20,000 or more over the past three years are recognized with their organizational logo. All other supporting institutions that have contributed $5,000+ cumulatively (including in-kind) over the last three years are gratefully acknowledged by name in alphabetical order.

Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum

Birmingham Zoo

Cameron Park Zoological & Botanical Society

Columbus AAZK Chapter

Disney's Animal Kingdom

Fort Wayne Children's Zoo

Fort Worth Zoo

Fundacja Zoo Wrocław – DODO

Houston Zoo

Iguanaland

John Ball Zoo

Little Ray’s Nature Centre

Little Rock Zoo

Maryland Zoo

Milwaukee County Zoo

Mississippi Aquarium

Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden

Phoenix Zoo (Arizona Center for Nature Conservation)

Saginaw Children's Zoo

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo

Sedgwick County Zoo

Tennessee Aquarium

Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center

Toronto Zoo

Turtle Back Zoo (Zoological Society of New Jersey, Inc.)

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Wildlife Conservation Society/Bronx Zoo

Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium

Detroit Zoological Society

We're grateful to the Detroit Zoological Society for its leadership support. Their generous contribution helped strengthen TSA’s global conservation programs and provided critical emergency relief for more than 2,000 turtles confiscated last fall and placed in the care of Zoológico Guadalajara. This timely effort helped ensure these animals received the immediate care and stabilization they needed.

Supporter Spotlights

RAPID-RESPONSE HERO SPOTLIGHT

Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF)

SAMUEL FREEMAN CHARITABLE TRUST

When more than 2,000 turtles were confiscated in Mexico, including the critically endangered Vallarta Mud Turtle (Kinosternon vogti), the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund stepped forward with rapid-response funding. Their support helped stabilize the animals and strengthen emergency conservation actions in partnership with Zoológico Guadalajara and regional experts. CEPF’s swift commitment demonstrates how timely investment can protect species on the brink and support urgent conservation action when it matters most. CEPF is a joint initiative of l’Agence Française de Développement, Conservation International, the European Union, the Global Environment Facility, the Government of Canada, the Government of Japan, Fondation Hans Wilsdorf, and the World Bank.

DONOR SPOTLIGHT

Nicole and Daniel Voss

“Radiated Tortoises are a living treasure. Supporting TSA’s efforts in Madagascar is deeply meaningful to us. These remarkable animals deserve a future in the wild and we are grateful to contribute to the dedicated team working tirelessly to protect them. Conservation is a shared responsibility, and we are honored to play a part in safeguarding this extraordinary species.” - Dan & Nicole Voss

FOUNDATION SPOTLIGHT

Samuel Freeman Charitable Trust

TSA is grateful to the Samuel Freeman Charitable Trust for its leadership support of expanded veterinary services at the Turtle Survival Center in South Carolina. Their grant increases on-site care from veterinarian Dr. Shane Boylan, strengthening diagnostics, treatment, and preventative care for critically endangered turtles. This vital support helps ensure the health and success of TSA’s assurance colonies, safeguarding species whose survival increasingly depends on expert care and husbandry.

NEW DONOR SPOTLIGHT

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

We welcome Happy Hollow Park & Zoo as a new partner in turtle conservation. Their generous $25,000 grant supports TSA’s Madagascar program and advances our Confiscation to Reintroduction strategy, an ambitious effort to return 20,000 critically endangered Radiated Tortoises (Astrochelys radiata) to their native habitat. This support helps restore wild populations while strengthening conservation capacity in Madagascar, giving an iconic tortoise species a renewed chance for recovery.

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Elodie Cutler

Elodie, a dedicated high school student, volunteers at the Turtle Survival Center, supporting our veterinary team with health assessments, check-ups, and resident care. Her compassion and commitment make a daily difference. “Months of swabbing, sampling, and catching turtles with the most amazingly talented people at the Turtle Survival Center have made me both a better biologist and person!”

LEGACY CIRCLE MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Christine Nassikas

“I have always been a lover of reptiles, especially all kinds of turtles. I grew up in Louisiana as a little girl and would spot snapping turtles and softshell turtles in the canals. This started my early connection and lifelong love of turtles. I rescued and still have two box turtles that I have had for 25 years. Becoming a Legacy Member of TSA has reassured me that my turtles and all others around the world will always be protected. Including TSA in my estate plans is my way of standing up for the species I have loved my whole life.”

Event Partners

TSA proudly acknowledges the following businesses, organizations, and groups that hosted and supported Drink Beer. Save Turtles.® events in 2025.

1 Million Turtles

Alpha Brewing Company

Blank Park Zoo

Bold City Brewery

Brew Mountains Brewery

Burnish Beer Co.

Charleston Beer Works

Chesapeake AAZK Chapter

Columbus AAZK Chapter

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Programs Department

Confluence Brewing

First Magnitude Brewing

Flyway Brewing

Hay Camp Brewing Co.

Hill City Tap House

Holy City Brewing

Jacksonville AAZK Chapter

Little Rock AAZK Chapter

LO-Fi Brewing

Lowcountry Land Trust

Mike Hess Brewing

Milwaukee AAZK Chapter

Naked River Brewing

Nocterra Brewing

Perspective Brewing

Puget Sound AAZK Chapter

St. Louis AAZK Chapter

The Whale: A Craft Beer Collective

Two Blokes Brewing

Drink Beer. Save Turtles.®

Drink Beer. Save Turtles.® (DBST) is a volunteer-driven fundraising initiative that brings together people who care about turtles. Supporters host pint nights, special beer releases, taproom events, and community gatherings that raise funds and awareness for TSA’s global conservation programs. Through educational outreach, live turtle and tortoise ambassadors, and grassroots fundraising, DBST connects communities with turtle conservation and helps build a global network of supporters working toward a future where turtles thrive in the wild.

Want to become a Drink Beer. Save Turtles.® Conservation Partner in 2026? Contact us at dbst@turtlesurvival.org for more information and check out our website for more information:

Financial Summary

2025 Revenue: $7,299,663

2025 Expenses: $5,794,592

January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025

Each year, a portion of TSA’s board-designated Stewardship Fund is allocated to support strategic priorities and cover staff costs, ensuring that a majority of personnel expenses are supported by sustainable, long-term revenue. In 2025, $886,950 was allocated to support core operations, including staff and key organizational priorities.

*In June 2025, TSA received a $6 million multi-year grant from an anonymous foundation. TSA received an initial payment of $2 million in 2025, with the remaining $4 million to be paid in equal installments in 2026 and 2027. Because the pledge was unrestricted, accounting rules require that TSA record the full amount of the grant in the year it was received.

The anonymous foundation grant is the main driver of the change in net assets.

The financial figures presented are subject to final audit. Please scan the QR code to access the official audited financial statements once they are published.

Join the Movement to Save Turtles

Turtles and tortoises have survived for more than 200 million years, yet today they are among the most threatened groups of vertebrates on Earth. More than half of the 359 turtle species face extinction due to habitat loss, illegal wildlife trade, climate change, and more.

TSA is working around the world to change that.

From rescuing thousands of confiscated tortoises in Madagascar, to protecting turtles in Central America and Asia, our teams and partners are working tirelessly in more than 30 countries to ensure turtles thrive in the wild.

Rescue and care for animals confiscated from illegal trade

Support conservation breeding programs for species on the brink of extinction

Advance science and genetics that guide species recovery and protects them in the wild

Return wild turtles to the habitats where they belong