TURTLE ON THE BRINK OF EXTINCTION
The European pond turtle is distinguished by its dark armour and yellow spots on its body.
The European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis), the tortoise's only native freshwater species, hides from predators in riparian vegetation and among aquatic plants in standing waters. It prefers to lay its eggs in dry meadows or on sandy ground.
Do we need to protect the natural river to save the European pond turtle?
The presence of the European pond turtle indicates good water quality and well-preserved living spaces. The restricted river dynamics prevent the formation of new offshoots and backwaters, both of which are important for regulating the microclimate and underground water.
The European pond turtle is protected by theRed List and Natura 2000, but only people can save it from extinction through conscious action.
Did you know that the European pond turtle is protected in 1395 Natura 2000 areas across Europe, including 15 in Slovenia?
What threatens it? | What can we do? |
desiccation of stagnant waters | preserving and protecting the wetlands |
agricultural use of fertilisers and toxic substances | reduce the use of fertilisers and poisons |
wetland traffic | increase attention and reduce speed |
release of alien turtle species into nature | find new owners for alien specie |
In the project zaDravo, we RENEWED THE BACKWATERS
By doing so, we were able to reintroduce the European pond turtle, as well as the Italian crested newt, the Yellow-bellied toad, and many other species, to their natural habitat. We also removed non-native turtle species, allowing the European pond turtle to return to its natural habitat.
Read more about endangered and protected species and Natura 2000