Preliminary Data on the Isolated Testudo Graeca Population from the "Cetatea Histria" Museum Complex, the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve (Romania)

Abstract

The land of the Cetatea Histria Museum Complex, the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, holds a large population of Testudo graeca, relatively well isolated due to the existing fence around the land of museum and the lack of suitable habitat in the vicinity. The relative high density of individuals in this area, 1.68 individuals / ha, and low recapture rates, 9.25%, suggests a large population size. The presence of juveniles and the lack of individuals with tick infestation or traces of human violence on carapace or plastron indicate a viable population which occupies an area with limited human activity.