The mission of the TSA is rooted in the need for captive assurance colonies to secure the future of the world's most endangered turtles and tortoises. To achieve our goal of zero turtle extinctions, we recognize that we must have a dedicated Center to build up robust captive populations of species that are critically endangered and that face an uncertain future in the wild.
We have identified a site that we consider ideally suited to our goal - a 50-acre property and facility in South Carolina. The climate there is moderate coastal lowland, comparable to a number of the areas in Asia where many of our target species are found.
We believe that we are on the verge of something truly transformational for the TSA and that in a short time the Turtle Survival Center will help guarantee the survival of a number of high priority species. In fact we are targeting species that have little or no chance for survival in the wild, and are likely to depend on captive populations to avoid extinction. Other species present unique husbandry challenges that can be best addressed by the expert care that will be provided by this Center.
We have plans to expand the infrastructure and build specialized facilities by the spring of 2013 in order to house key targeted species, many of which are already owned by TSA and are ready to move in. Now, we need YOU to help make this vision a reality. We have a goal of $1.6 million for the Center. That figure includes: $400,000 for the purchase in 2012, $300,000 in renovation and construction in 2013 and $900,000 in operating expenses through the year 2016. By donating to the Center, you have an opportunity to help save species from extinction. The Turtle Survival Center collection plan includes seven species of tortoises and 20 species of freshwater turtles – primarily Asian – that have been carefully selected for assurance colonies. Four of the tortoises and 16 of the turtle species are ranked by the IUCN Red List as being Critically Endangered, the category with the highest risk of extinction. Nine are identified on the list of the World’s 25+ Most Endangered Tortoises and Freshwater Turtles.
Click the button below to donate today. If you are interested in making a large gift, please contact Heather Lowe (click to email, or call 817/759-7262) for more information on our Capital Campaign and donor recognition opportunities. Please contact Heather Lowe if you wish for your gift to remain anonymous. Otherwise, we'll be thanking you on our website in the near future.
