Mid of January 2025, 15 critically endangered Vallarta Mud Turtles (Kinosternon vogti) were stolen from our conservation station in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Despite having security measures like cameras and fences in place, the turtles were taken in a devastating act that threatens the survival of this fragile species.

🌍 The Vallarta Mud Turtle is the world’s smallest turtle species, found only in the freshwater ecosystems of Puerto Vallarta. With so few left in the wild, this theft is a catastrophic blow to the species’ survival.

We urgently need your help to:

- Strengthen security with additional measures, including night guards and reinforced enclosures

- Protect and restore their natural habitat

- Fund critical research to safeguard the future of this extraordinary species

Your donation can make a direct impact. Together, we can fight wildlife trafficking and secure a future for the Vallarta Mud Turtle.

Thank you for standing with Turtle Island and the Vallarta Mud Turtle!

Turtles Stolen – Vallarta Mud Turtle at Risk 🚨

By Turtle Island

Turtles Stolen – Vallarta Mud Turtle at Risk 🚨

Kinosternon vogti: Saving the World's Tiniest Turtle

Team Members