Grants
Land
BIOMEDITERRÁNEA | European Pond Turtle Study
7,500€ awarded
TOTAL PROJECT COST – €12,050
IN PROGRESS
- Organisation Applying for Funding:BioMediterránea
- Project Duration: September 2025 to June 2026
- Area of Interest: Land
Project Summary:
The “Study of the European pond turtle using non-invasive drone methods” aims to improve knowledge about the distribution, abundance, and threats faced by the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) in Menorca, through the use of drones for monitoring. This approach will partly replace traditional capture and handling techniques with a more respectful system, reducing the impact on the species while optimising costs and effort. The study will take place in key areas where the species is found, such as Son Bou, Son Parc, Macarella, Tirant, Algairens, and Binimel·la.
Main Objectives:
The study aims to:
- Continuously monitor European pond turtle populations in Menorca.
- Assess the quality and suitability of the habitats they occupy.
- Identify threats such as habitat loss, invasive species, and human pressure.
- Compare the effectiveness of drones with traditional monitoring methods.
Expected results:
Environmental outcomes include:
- Updated distribution maps for the species in Menorca.
- Data on abundance, habitat quality, and presence of threats.
- Identification of critical conservation areas, such as high-density or breeding sites.
- Comparative analysis of the effectiveness and accuracy of drone monitoring versus trapping.
Social, economic and/or political outcomes:
- Increased local awareness of the importance of the species through outreach events and activities.
- Dissemination of results via social media, press, and the organisation’s website.
- Collaboration with local authorities and entities to implement conservation measures.
- Generation of knowledge that can be applied to other aquatic reptile conservation projects.
Project Legacy:
The use of drones for monitoring the European pond turtle in Menorca could set a methodological precedent at national level, showing that it is possible to obtain high-quality data with a lower impact on wildlife and at a reduced cost. The results will support conservation decision-making, improve wetland management, and raise public awareness. In addition, the study will provide the foundation for future research and long-term protection measures, ensuring the continuity of monitoring for this emblematic species of the island’s aquatic ecosystems.