Wicklow, Ireland
The Turtle Sanctuary
Hidden away in the Wicklow countryside is a small sanctuary built around some very big personalities.
What began with caring for turtles has become one of the most grounding parts of my life. Their world changes dramatically with the Irish seasons — from summer days basking outside to the complicated rhythms of winter and brumation.
Meet the Residents
Julia Julia
Julia was rescued by the DSPCA in very poor health and treated for severe pneumonia before we adopted her. Today she’s thriving and living her best turtle life at the sanctuary.
Manuel
Manuel was rescued alongside Julia and also treated by the DSPCA for severe pneumonia. He’s made a remarkable recovery and is now healthy, active and thoroughly enjoying his second chance.
Myrtle
Myrtle came to us with Timmy and is our other outdoor pond turtle. Independent and determined, she lives a wonderfully natural life following the changing seasons.
Timmy
Timmy was one of our first turtles and lives outdoors in the pond. He spends his summers swimming and basking, then follows the seasons into winter brumation.
Life at the Sanctuary
Seasonal Diaries
The sanctuary changes dramatically with the Irish seasons. Summer brings basking and outdoor time; winter means carefully managed brumation and indoor warmth.
Turtle Care & Learning
Caring for turtles long-term is a constant education. From diet and habitat to health and behaviour, I share what I learn along the way.
Sanctuary Stories
Each turtle has a story — how they arrived, how they settled in, and the small moments that make sanctuary life so unexpectedly rich.
Gallery
