Instalation of informational and safety panels
From November 19 to 22, the Public Institution for the Management of Protected Areas of Dubrovnik-Neretva County, in collaboration with the contractor BEATO SIGNAL d.o.o., installed panels and sign posts in the areas of Majkovi, Prljevići, Konavle, and Ston.
In the area of the special herpetological reserve Lokve in Majkovi, which includes two Natura 2000 sites (Gornji Majkovi – lokve and Lokva in Prljevići), the following were installed:
- 3 information boards
- 4 "Warning: turtle on the road" signs
- 3 interpretive panels
- 3 signs with instructions on how to behave at the locality
- 3 warning signs of the forbidden release of invasive species
In the Natura 2000 site of Sniježnica and Konavosko polje, the following were installed:
- 2 information boards
- 4 "Warning: turtle on the road" signs
- 1 warning sign of the forbidden release of invasive species
In the Natura 2000 site of JI part of Pelješac (Stonsko polje), the following were installed:
- 2 information boards
- 2 "Warning: turtle on the road" signs
These new informational and safety panels play a crucial role in protecting the Balkan Terrapin, its habitats, and other ecological values in the area. The information boards, in both Croatian and English, inform visitors that they are entering a Natura 2000 site, highlighting the Balkan Terrapin as a target species that inhabits the area.
For the protection of terrapins on the roads, "Warning: turtle on the road" signs have been placed in locations where there is a higher risk of the terrapins crossing the road in search of nesting sites or migrating between habitats. Additionally, interpretive panels within the herpetological reserve explain the importance of these habitats, emphasizing the strict protection of Balkan Terrapins and educating visitors about their role in the ecosystem.
Moreover, signs with instructions on how to behave at the locality have been placed at key locations, reminding visitors not to disturb wildlife, litter, use water surfaces for recreation, or harm the environment by starting fires. Warning signs of the forbidden release of invasive species have also been installed, stressing the ban on releasing exotic pets, such as red-eared pond sliders, into Croatia's natural habitats.
These measures aim to raise awareness of the importance of preserving natural habitats, providing locals and visitors with clear guidelines for responsible behavior and nature conservation.
