Cuatro Ciénegas in Mexico’s Chihuahuan Desert is one of the most unique and endangered ecosystems on our planet. This oasis harbors an astonishing array of species, many of which can’t be found anywhere else on Earth. Its water-rich habitats—rare in such an arid region—support a wealth of life, from ancient microbial mats that mirror early Earth conditions to nearly 100 unique plants and animals, including three highly threatened endemic turtle species.

Our Urgent Mission: Save Endemic Turtles of Cuatro Ciénegas
The Coahuilan Box Turtle (only about 1,500 left in the wild), the Cuatro Ciénegas Slider (<1,000 remain), and the elusive Cuatro Ciénegas Softshell Turtle face the risk of extinction due to habitat degradation and groundwater depletion.

The Plan: Secure & Protect Critical Habitat
The Turtle Conservancy has a unique opportunity to acquire a key privately-owned parcel of land in Cuatro Ciénegas, identified through years of research by TC board member, Dr. Craig Stanford, and collaborator, Dr. Gamaliel Castañeda. This acquisition, done in partnership with local conservationists, will ensure protection of the area’s fragile ecosystem, safeguarding it from the impacts of intensive agriculture and booming tourism.

Why This Matters
Intensive water use from agroindustrial activities and tourism has escalated in recent years, straining the region’s groundwater resources and jeopardizing the survival of these species. Conserving this land will support sustainable water use and protect the delicate balance that makes Cuatro Ciénegas such an extraordinary living laboratory for evolutionary research.

Join Us This Giving Tuesday
Your donation will directly support the Turtle Conservancy’s efforts to acquire and manage this land, providing a safe haven for endangered species and ensuring that Cuatro Ciénegas remains a natural wonder for generations to come. Let’s protect this rare desert oasis together—your generosity can make a lasting difference.

Donate Today to preserve Cuatro Ciénegas and help protect one of Earth’s most irreplaceable ecosystems.