Another Pond slider Removed

The Public Institution for the Management of Protected Natural Areas of the Dubrovnik-Neretva County recently received a report about the presence of the invasive alien species pond slider (Trachemys scripta) in the Vid settlement, which is located within the Natura 2000 ecological network – Neretva Delta.

The pond slider was spotted and responsibly reported by a local resident of Vid. In accordance with the Management Plan for the species Trachemys scripta issued by the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development, the staff of the Public Institution retrieved the individual. After temporary care, the turtle was transferred to the Zagreb Zoo, where many other pond sliders and other invasive alien terrapins — removed from natural habitats throughout the Dubrovnik-Neretva County thanks to responsible citizens — are already being housed.

Native to the eastern United States and northeastern Mexico, the pond slider has, due to long-standing and intensive pet trade, become widespread across the globe. In natural habitats where it has been introduced, it poses a serious threat to native species such as the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) and the Balkan terrapin (Mauremys rivulata).

Thanks to its large size, aggressiveness, early sexual maturity, and high reproductive potential, the pond slider easily outcompetes native species in their natural habitats. It can also carry pathogens and parasites, further endangering local wildlife.

This is why the removal of invasive alien species from four locations within the Natura 2000 network—the Neretva Delta, Majkovi, Konavle field, and the southeastern part of the Pelješac Peninsula (Ston field)—is one of the key objectives of this project.

Many pond sliders have ended up in nature due to the irresponsible release from aquariums or garden ponds, often with good intentions, but without awareness of the serious consequences for the ecosystem. For this reason, the project also includes educational activities aimed at raising public awareness — especially among children and youth — about the dangers of releasing pets into the wild.

We thank the local resident of Vid for their report and responsible action and invite all other citizens to report sightings of invasive freshwater turtle species via email at info@zastita-prirode-dnz.hr or by calling +385 20 411 533.

Through timely action, we can all contribute to the protection of our endangered native species and their habitats.