Closing Event of the Mediterranean Wetland Week
What began with a two-day educational seminar on ecological innovations in agriculture concluded with a joyful public event for children and adults, which attracted a large number of locals from Konavle.
We were especially delighted by the great turnout of children, who—under the expert guidance of biologists from Hyla and the Zagreb Zoo experts had the opportunity to explore a nearby pond, a natural habitat of the Balkan Terrapin. With a live demonstration of scientific trapping using traditional fishing nets, participants learned about the biology of this endangered species, asked numerous questions, and helped debunk common myths about the local fauna - such as the belief that snakes are slimy, that vipers can jump, or that land tortoises can swim or that freshwater turtles lay eggs anywhere.
The creative spirit of the event was enriched by local artist Luko Capor, who led a clay workshop focused on sculpting terrapins. Dozens of small turtle sculptures were crafted by the skillful hands of both children and adults and taken home as souvenirs—reminders of a day filled with learning and joy. A short break from the workshop was made even more special by a performance of the junior folklore group of the Stjepan Radić Cultural and Artistic Society from Pridvorje, who brought traditional songs and dances into the celebration.
The audience also enjoyed an exclusive premiere of a short animated film about a character named Mara, which is being developed in collaboration with the project by animators from the Šipan Summer Film School. Attendees also watched last year’s animated film about freshwater turtles created by previous school participants. An educational traveling exhibition about the Balkan Terrapin, set up in the monastery building, attracted many curious visitors and has already visited numerous schools throughout the Dubrovnik-Neretva County.
We were joined by Lucijana Mihaljek, librarian from the Cavtat Branch of the Dubrovnik Libraries, who received a donation of our children's picture book "Mauremys squad – Raising Our Voice for the Turtle's Cause!" on behalf of her institution. Her father, Miho Kukuljica (OPG “Miho Kukuljica”), a long-time partner and advisory board member of the project, has played an invaluable role in conservation efforts for the Balkan Terrapin’s habitat.
A particularly memorable moment was the arrival of our project’s mascot – Mara the Balkan Terrapin – who posed for photos with visitors. Some even recognized the mandarin blossom adorning her head, a familiar sight in many Konavle gardens.
Local flavors and aromas rounded out the experience – dedicated local chefs prepared traditional dish "šporke marakule" (eng. dirty pasta), and there was no shortage of homemade wine.
We thank Ivo Mujo, president of Agroturizam Konavle, for including our event in the official program of Spring in Konavle, helping us bring the story of freshwater turtles and their habitat closer to a broader audience. A heartfelt thanks also goes to all the volunteers, partners, chefs, artists, and visitors who contributed to this unforgettable event beneath the canopy of a magnificent plane tree in front of the Monastery in Pridvorje.
Events like this remind us that nature conservation isn’t the sole responsibility of scientists and institutions—it’s a shared duty and a unique opportunity to connect with our local communities through education, culture, and joy.
We look forward to future gatherings and continuing the story of the Balkan Terrapin and the life that depends on the clean, living waters of southern Croatia.
