An Alliance Worth Shell-ebrating

From loss of habitat to collection to supply the pet and medicinal trade, turtles all over the world are in serious trouble. Fortunately, turtles have organizations like the Turtle Survival Alliance looking out for them. From its home in Charleston, South Carolina, to operations in more than 30 countries, the TSA is on the frontlines of breeding and protecting critically endangered turtles. They're also a long-time collaborator with the Tennessee Aquarium, which partners with the TSA in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) American Turtles program. You can also see some of the offspring of critically imperiled turtles raised by the TSA in the Aquarium's working turtle nursery. Learn more about the Turtle Survival Alliance at https://turtlesurvival.org Learn more about the AZA SAFE American Turtles program: https://youtu.be/fdnQ7Kd8czk?si=kgPG4XpIE3UNTysUEpisode CastCasey Phillips, host, senior communications specialist and anti-turtle smugglerMarc Dupuis-Desormeaux, Turtle Survival Alliance CEODave Collins, Turtle Survival Alliance senior director of domestic conservation Bill Hughes, herpetology collections coordinatorThe Podcast Aquatic is made possible by support from The Tennessee Conservationist, the official magazine of Tennessee State Parks.Printed sustainably on 100% post-consumer recycled paper with UV ink, each issue is filled with fascinating stories about Tennessee’s native species, rich history, and unique culture. It’s also your guide to exploring state parks and planning your next outdoor adventure. Become a Tennessee Conservationist and subscribe at tnconservationist.org.  Join other conservation enthusiasts and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.