CRWILD and Turtle Survival Alliance Join Forces for Freshwater Turtle Research in Costa Rica

Exciting news for wildlife conservation!

We are proud to officially announce a new partnership between CRWILD and the internationally renowned organization Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA). This strategic collaboration marks a historic step forward for the research and conservation of freshwater turtles in Costa Rica.

Chelydra acutirostris / Photo: Cristian Porras Ramírez / Refugio Animal de Costa Rica. — *Chelydra acutirostris* / Photo: Cristian Porras Ramírez / Refugio Animal de Costa Rica.

Although our country is recognized as a global leader in herpetological research, freshwater turtles have received very little scientific attention in recent decades. As a result, there is a concerning gap in our knowledge about the distribution, population status, and threats facing these unique species.

Thanks to the support of Turtle Survival Alliance —an organization actively working on conservation projects in over 20 countries— we are launching a new initiative that will combine field research, community education, and conservation actions to protect our native freshwater turtles.

What are our goals?

Conduct updated population assessments of Costa Rica’s freshwater turtle species.
Analyze major threats, including habitat loss, illegal trade, and climate change.
Collaborate with local communities to develop long-term conservation strategies.
Train a new generation of Costa Rican researchers specialized in turtle conservation.

This partnership not only represents a major advancement for science and conservation in Costa Rica, but also strengthens the connection between the scientific community, local communities, and international allies committed to protecting biodiversity.

We are deeply grateful to Turtle Survival Alliance for trusting CRWILD and Costa Rica’s potential to lead this new chapter in freshwater turtle conservation.

Together, we are building a future where every species has the chance to thrive!