The importance of aquatic and terrestrial habitat for the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis): implications for conservation planning and management

Abstract

The European pond turtle, Emys orbicularis (L., 1758), is threatened throughout its distribution, prompting management of habitats and populations for conservation. Quantitative data on habitat requirements for this species are needed to better evaluate which areas are the most suitable, or what actions can improve habitat suitability. We studied relationships between the distribution and abundance of E. orbicularis and the environment by analysing water quality and features of 39 wetland and upland habitats in the Po River delta of northern Italy; visual transects and point counts were used to determine turtle presence and relative abundance. Emys orbicularis occurs more frequently and abundantly in permanent wetlands surrounded by woodlands, and its presence does not appear to be related to water eutrophication. Woodlands strongly influence adjacent wetland features and may be important for turtles' terrestrial activities such as nesting and dispersal. Habitat management and conservation plans for E. orbicularis should include protection of extensive terrestrial woodland habitat containing diverse wetland systems, to support turtle survival at different life-history stages. The requirements for wetlands and natural terrestrial habitat are difficult to meet in the currently human-dominated European lowlands; nevertheless, conservation plans for this species should take a broad-scale approach.