Tiny turtles, big journey
This year, your Toronto Zoo released 52 Blanding’s turtles into Rouge National Urban Park, bringing our total number of turtles released into the park over the last 12 years to over 750. At a time when many Ontario species are under threat of habitat loss and extinction, this program is of particular importance as we work to ensure populations survive AND recover. This collaborative initiative, co-led by your Toronto Zoo’s Adopt-a-Pond Wetland Conservation Program and Parks Canada, is part of recovery efforts to conserve this endangered species in the Greater Toronto Area.
The joint goal is to restore a self-sustaining population in the Rouge River Watershed. Our population modeling suggests that a minimum of 20 years of headstarting will be required to achieve this outcome.
This year marks 12 years into this 20-year commitment, as we work towards saving a species that was once on the very brink of disappearing from this landscape, here in Toronto.
In February of this year, your Toronto Zoo released an updated Strategic plan as well as an important update to our mission: Connecting people, animals, conservation science and traditional knowledge to fight extinction. The reality for many species is simple: Out of sight, out of mind, and off the planet. Climate change and biodiversity loss are accelerating and placing new pressures on animal and plant populations, and we know we can help! We are ruthless optimists fueled by the belief that contemporary science and traditional knowledge together can make a positive difference to protect species and the habitats they depend on.
A critical component to our success will be deeper relationships with Indigenous communities. This includes more opportunities for education, conservation, employment and storytelling with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. We are brought together through a shared commitment to connecting people with nature and a multi-generational commitment to the planet.
How can you help the Blanding’s turtles?
As your Toronto Zoo continues to look to the future, we are committed more than ever to ensuring these species not only survive but THRIVE in their natural habitats. That’s why your Toronto Zoo is building a new Community Conservation Centre — the future home programs like the Blanding’s Turtle Headstart Program. Dedicated to conservation and reintroduction, the new Community Conservation Centre will serve as a hub for innovation, education, and collaboration, empowering our community to stand with us in protecting the natural world
Make a lasting impact by donating to our fundraising partners at the Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy
https://wildlifeconservancy.ca/donate/
OUR MISSION:
Toronto Zoo
Our Toronto Zoo – Connecting people, animals and
conservation science to fight extinction.
