Why Save Injured Turtles?
The Western pond turtle is considered a “species of special concern” and is currently under review for listing under the Endangered Species Act. So every individual is important to their recovery.
The Zoo’s Western pond turtles were all rescued from their native habitats after they were found with injuries. How they were injured isn’t known, but they could be from encounters with predators, such as raccoons or birds.
Many rehabilitated turtles are returned to the wild. But after a medical evaluation, it was determined that these individuals likely could not survive. So they are now ambassadors for their species, California’s only native freshwater turtle.
Our Crew
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Zig Zag
- Found in a pond in the Topanga Creek Watershed with a partially missing left rear leg in March 2015, re-released in June 2015
- During a wellness check in August 2015, her low weight and a missing right front leg prompted recovery and she remained at RCDSMM until she came to the Zoo with the other two females in November 2018
- Was named for the zig-zag swimming pattern she displays due to her missing legs
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- Was found by U.S. Geological Survey with a head injury
- Has healed, but the injury makes him unable to return to the wild
- Is described by keepers as bold and curious
George (aka Saq Von Helmet)
- Admitted as a hatchling to California Wildlife Center in February 2013 with injuries to shell and jaw after being dropped by gull in flight
- Is unable to be released back into the wild because his jaw healed in such a way that he can no longer catch live prey
- Fostered by a California State Parks/Angeles District scientist, who gave him his unusual name
- Is easily identified by his distinctive jaw
- Keepers report he is very curious and loves to climb
Conservation Status
The Western pond turtle is threatened throughout much of its range along the Pacific coast, all the way from British Columbia to Baja California. Causes of the dramatic population decline vary, but include habitat loss, predation by non-native species such as bullfrogs, and competition for resources by red-eared slider turtles, also an invasive species. Western pond turtles are listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List.
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Species Survival Plans
The Santa Barbara Zoo is one of the 220+ accredited zoos and aquariums that participate in Species Survival Plans (SSP), a cooperatively managed program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). More than 200 different species are managed through SSPs, aimed at maintaining genetic diversity within AZA populations, sustaining these populations, and guarding against extinction.
Wildlife Experiences
Meet the Animals
Have you always wanted to get just a little bit closer to the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo? Well, you can! Take a look at our animal encounters, and choose the best option for you and/or your family.