With all of the news of the swine flu epidemic coming out of Mexico, some brighter news is always welcome. These sea turtles, released in Puerto Escondido, Mexico on World Turtle Day last Saturday, are definitely a ray of light—not just for Mexico, but for sea turtles in general.

All species of sea turtles are labeled as either endangered or threatened, so any attempts to increase their population provide hope for their survival. Though it’s illegal to hunt most turtle varieties, they are still captured and sold as a delicacy in China and many other countries—as well as used for leather products such as shoes and wallets.

One of the oldest animal species alive today, sea turtles live up to 80 years. According to Defenders of Wildlife, today’s sea turtles “became distinct from all other turtles at least 110 million years ago.” Fisheries are currently the biggest threat to sea turtles, where they become entangled in fishing nets, ensnared on hooks, or killed by dredges.

American Tortoise Rescue started World Turtle Day in 2000, and through it they have maintained conservation efforts, rescued injured turtles and found homes for more than 3,000 turtles. They will be actually be celebrating World Turtle Day until June 23,

To find out how you can help save turtles, click here. You can even adopt a sea turtle! No, you won’t get to bring him home, but you can help save his habitat, provide for his protection, and even get a (fake!) stuffed version of him depending on your donation.