Around 20 European pond turtles (Emys orbicularis) have been released into the Marjal dels Moros wetland in eastern Spain after completing a two-year conservation breeding and head-starting programme led by Bioparc Foundation, Bioparc Valencia and the Gijón Aquarium, in partnership with the Valencian regional government.
Children attending BIOPARC Valencia’s “Expedition Africa” summer school took part in the release, witnessing the final stage of a conservation project designed to strengthen wild populations of this threatened native freshwater turtle.
Two years of specialist care
The programme began in 2024, when hatchlings selected by conservation authorities were transferred to BIOPARC Valencia and the Gijón Aquarium.
During their first two years of life—the most vulnerable period for the species—the young turtles received specialised veterinary care, a carefully managed diet and continuous monitoring. They were initially housed in temperature-controlled indoor facilities before moving to outdoor enclosures designed to replicate natural conditions.
The turtles were released only after reaching a minimum shell length of 8 centimetres, significantly improving their chances of surviving in the wild.
Tackling invasive species
The conservation programme also addresses one of the main threats facing the European pond turtle: the spread of the invasive pond slider (Trachemys scripta), often released into the wild after being kept as a pet.
Besides competing with native turtles for food and basking sites, the invasive species can also introduce diseases and disrupt fragile wetland ecosystems.
Alongside reintroduction efforts, BIOPARC promotes environmental education and responsible pet ownership, highlighting the importance of preventing exotic species from being released into the wild.
