World Turtle Day: In-Person Turtle Encounters

In this first in-person on-site event since the pandemic began, you will get to interact with at least nine species of turtles, learn about ongoing conservation efforts to support turtle populations in Maryland, see select specimens from the NHSM Collections, including the first bog turtle ever found in Maryland in 1940, and have the opportunity to feed and have your picture taken with a giant mountain tortoise.

Founded in 1990, World Turtle Day was created as an annual observance to help people celebrate and protect turtles and tortoises and their disappearing habitats around the world.

There are 22 total species of turtle found in Maryland (19 native). All species of sea turtles in Maryland are listed as Federally Threatened or Endangered along with the elusive bog turtle, the smallest turtle in the world at a staggering 4 inches at maturity.

To ensure safety of volunteers, staff and guests, admission to this event is limited.  Ten (10) tickets per time slot will be made available for purchase online ahead of the event.  You must arrive on time for your tickets to be honored. Walk-ins will not be accepted. The parking lot will also be closed to vehicular traffic. Overflow parking is available in two lots near the museum.

TIMED ENTRY TICKETS
10:00-10:30       Available 10
11:30-12:00       Available 10
12:15-12:45        Available 10
1:00-1:30           Available 10
1:45-2:15            Available 10
2:30-3:00          Available 10

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1. Limited attendance
2. Timed attendance
3. Masks mandatory
4. One-way pedestrian path through exhibits
5. No food or drink

NHSM and the NHSM Herp Club are proud to partner with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Mid-Atlantic Turtle and Tortoise Society to present this World Turtle Day event.