Today, May the 23rd is World Turtle Day! A time to celebrate these amazing reptiles and to remember lost species such as the Pinta Island tortoise “Lonesome George”.  Turtles, tortoises and terrapins belong to the order Testudines.  These are ancient creatures with an extensive fossil record.  Their evolutionary origins and the development of the carapace and plastron has puzzled palaeontologists.

Remembering the Pinta Island Tortoise “Lonesome George”

One of these creatures that we recall is “Lonesome George”, the last Pinta Island giant tortoise.  He became a symbol of conservation efforts.  Sadly, this giant tortoise died in 2012.  Conservation efforts continue with global programmes inspired by the last of his species. His story reminds us of the importance of protecting endangered species.

Everything Dinosaur’s blog post from 2012 reflecting on the loss of “Lonesome George”: Reflecting on the Passing of “Lonesome George”.

Rebor "Lonesome George" the Pinta Island replica.

The Rebor 1:6 scale Pinta Island tortoise “Lonesome George” in lateral view. The model measures 30 cm long and stands 20 cm high. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The picture (above) shows a 1:6 scale model of the Pinta Island giant tortoise known as “Lonesome George”.  This beautiful model was introduced in 2023 by Rebor.

To view the Rebor range of models: Rebor Figures.

Recently, ideas about the evolution of these reptiles have been revised.  In addition, some researchers have suggested that the carapace and the plastron evolved not for protection but developed to assist with burrowing and living underground.

Turtle evolution complicated by new fossil discovery: Turtle Evolution Revised by New Study.

To read an article about the evolution of the carapace: Did the Turtle Shell Evolve to Assist with Burrowing?

World Turtle Day

Turtles, tortoises and terrapins play vital roles in our ecosystems. Sadly, many taxa are under threat with numerous species facing extinction.  World Turtle Day was first celebrated at the turn of the century.  It was created to highlight these animals and the need to protect and conserve species.  Furthermore, it provides us with an opportunity to celebrate and commemorate those dedicated conservationists that work so hard to protect habitats.

Take a moment today to appreciate tortoises, turtles and their relatives. Together, we can make a difference. Happy World Turtle Day!

The Everything Dinosaur website: Prehistoric Animal Models and Figures.