European turtle | Facts & Information

# European Turtle | Facts & Information

European Turtle | Discover Fascinating Facts and Information About European Turtle

The European land turtle (Testudo hermanni) is spread especially in the Iron Gates area, on the valleys of the Danube tributaries, especially at the edge of the forest borders.

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European Turtle

European Turtle

The European pond turtle, also known scientifically as Emys orbicularis, is one of the most fascinating species of reptiles living in Europe. This turtle is widespread in various regions of the continent and has a distinctive appearance and an interesting life. In this article, we will explore the characteristics and behavior of this species, as well as its habitat and conservation status.

The European pond turtle is a semi-aquatic reptile, adapted to both land and water life. Like most turtles, it has a flattened body, strong legs, and a long neck that facilitates navigation in water. Its defining feature is its shell, which has a round shape and a dark brown color with yellow and black spots.

This species primarily lives in wet areas such as marshes, ponds, and lakes, but can also be found in slow-moving watercourses. The European pond turtle also prefers places with dense vegetation and hiding spots, as it is a shy and cautious species. It is becoming increasingly rare in its natural habitat, especially due to the destruction of its natural habitats.

As for food, the European pond turtle is an omnivorous animal. It feeds on a wide variety of foods, such as insects, crustaceans, small fish, snails, or aquatic plants. It finds its prey both in water and on land, and its gentleness means it does not pose a threat to other species.

The European pond turtle is a species with a slow pace of life. It can live up to 50 years or even longer, and sexual maturity is reached around the age of 10-15 years. During the mating period, males fight for the right to reproduce, and these fights can be intense and result in serious injuries. Females lay their eggs in holes dug in the ground and carefully cover them with soil. The eggs develop for 2-3 months, and then hatchlings break the shells and begin their lives as tiny turtles.

Unfortunately, the European pond turtle is an endangered species. Habitat destruction and pollution, as well as excessive hunting and illegal pet trade, have significantly reduced its numbers. That is why many researchers and organizations strive to protect this species through conservation projects and public education.

Conservation measures include establishing and caring for nature reserves and protected areas, monitoring populations, and educating the public about the importance of protecting this species. Awareness campaigns and strict laws against hunting and the illegal trade of turtles are also essential for saving this species.

Therefore, protecting the European pond turtle is vital for maintaining biodiversity in Europe. This unique species contributes to the balance and functioning of freshwater ecosystems and offers us a fascinating perspective on the lives of reptiles. By appreciating and protecting this species, we can contribute to the preservation of the environment and the conservation of a corner of nature frozen in time.

In conclusion, the European pond turtle is a fascinating species of reptile with a unique adaptation to semi-aquatic life. However, it faces serious threats, and it is important to take measures to protect it. Through education, conservation, and respect for nature, we can contribute to saving this species and maintaining the natural balance of ecosystems.

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Facts

Origin

They also call him Hermann.

European turtle feed

It is a vegetarian species par excellence, feeding on leaves, berries, vegetables and very rarely small invertebrates.

Features land turtle

The medium-sized frog has about 4 cm at birth and 15-30 cm at adult age. The test is convex, with a rounded outline, without widening towards the posterior part.

There are no corny tubercles in the tail region. The supracaudal scales are split in two, and the overall shape is typically oval.

The color of this species is ocher-yellow or yellow-orange, with black spots and two bands of the same color at the level of the plastron.

European turtle breeding

It hibernates from October to the end of April, buried in the ground or in small caves present in the rocks at the banks.

Typically, it reproduces in late spring, when the female lays 11-12 white, spherical eggs with a diameter of 3.5 cm. which they bury in the ground.

The chicks hatch after a period of 3-4 months and measure at birth about 4cm. Due to biotope modification, pollution, ignorance and even disinterest in the species, it is currently on the verge of extinction, being protected by law.

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European turtle | Facts & InformationEuropean Turtle | Discover Fascinating Facts and Information About European Turtle