It is World Turtle Day; a day of celebrating the many unique and ancient species of turtles around the world. Apart from this, the most important aspect to celebrate this day on May 23 is to bring awareness to their need for protection. The American Tortoise Rescue (ATR) in 2000 initiated this annual celebration highlighting the necessity to care and conserve the oldest living species in the world. Like every year, on the occasion of World Turtle Day 2018, fans of turtle are marking this day by requesting humans to reduce the usage of plastic waste and raise awareness for the amphibian species. And Twitter is flooded with the pictures of these beautiful turtle as netizens celebrate World Turtle Day 2018.

As we are aware that over the years there have been severe threats from other animals, global warming and human poaching paving way to make these beautiful shy amphibians go extinct. According to ATR, turtles and tortoises are threatened by the exotic food trade, habitat destruction, global warming and the pet trade. Yes! Experts suggests that human beings should not pet turtles as they need a secure habitat and a suitable temperature. The Ganges and other major rivers, seas and beaches in India sustain turtle life but sadly as these rivers, seas and beaches are becoming more and more polluted, the turtles are beginning to die. Let’s check out the tweets as Twitterati shares beautiful pictures creating awareness to secure these amphibians on World Turtle Day 2018.

Relaxed and happy to swim!

Australian Freshwater turtles...

Baby sea turtle looks excited to step out...

Green sea turtle!

#BeatPlasticPollution Here is how Odisha celebrates World Turtle Day 2018...

As their shells are clean!

A wide range of programs across the country are dedicated to the turtle conservation. In 2015, a clean-up drive was initiated in the beaches of Mumbai, India which has proved to be a success as in March 2018 as Versova beach became a nest for 80 turtle hatchlings. Yes, the city which was a home for Olive Ridley Sea Turtle witnessed this beautiful sight after 20 years. A historic moment, indeed! While there is still a long way to go, conservation efforts to secure these amphibians continue. Here is to World Turtle Day!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 23, 2018 11:17 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).