Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre (OTCC), also known as Kawartha Turtle Trauma Centre, is a registered charity dedicated to protecting and conserving Ontario's native turtles and their habitats. They fulfill their mission through various initiatives, including operating a turtle hospital that treats and rehabilitates injured turtles, conducting extensive research to support conservation efforts, and running a comprehensive education and outreach program.

Globally, turtles are among the most endangered vertebrates, with approximately half of the world's 300 species threatened with extinction. The main causes of population decline include habitat loss and fragmentation, road mortality, poaching, boating/fishing bycatch, and predation of eggs. OTCC aims to raise awareness about the challenges facing turtles and inspire individuals to take action.

Conserving turtles is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and the health of ecosystems, particularly wetlands. Turtles play a vital role in wetland ecosystems, which are the most biologically diverse of all ecosystems. Wetlands act as natural water filters, erosion preventers, and flood controllers. Additionally, turtles have remarkable physiological abilities, such as surviving freezing temperatures, low oxygen levels, and long periods without breathing.

By supporting OTCC's conservation efforts, we can help ensure the survival and well-being of Ontario's turtles and the ecosystems they inhabit.