05. July 2025

A Week Dedicated to the European Pond Turtle

An intense, scientifically rich, and unforgettable research camp has come to a close as part of the international LIFE URCA PROEMYS project, dedicated to students of biology and related natural sciences. The five-day camp brought together 12 students—11 from Slovenia and one from Croatia—united by their shared passion for nature, eagerness to acquire new knowledge, and strong support from mentors and experts in ecology and conservation.

Day 1 – Introduction to the Salina and the Project

The first day was devoted to introductions, welcoming participants, and a guided expert tour of the Sečovlje Salina Nature Park.

In the evening, Iztok Škornik, the camp leader, delivered an engaging lecture introducing the biology and conservation importance of the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis), along with the goals and context of the LIFE URCA PROEMYS international project.

On the second and third day, participants camped and conducted fieldwork at the Stojba area (Fontanigge), organized into three working groups. They gained hands-on experience with various turtle monitoring methods, including:

• determining sex and age of individuals,
• biometric measurements and weighing,
• photographing individuals and recording data into field databases.

Evenings were enriched by observing nocturnal moths using a light trap, under the guidance of entomologist Stane Gomboc.

On the third evening, veterinarian Peter Maričič delivered a professional lecture on invasive species, veterinary care of exotic animals, and links between aquaponics and conservation.

Day 4 – Habitat Exploration and Sample Analysis

The fourth day focused on habitat exploration and reptile mapping, with visits to the former mine site in Sečovlje and the Fontanigge area. Field activities included:

• reptile surveys,
• physico-chemical water analyses (temperature, pH, conductivity),
• and a visit to an artificial nesting site established one year ago as part of the project.

So far, no nesting activity has been observed at the artificial site, suggesting that turtles may require more time to adapt to the new environment. The afternoon was dedicated to data analysis and interpretation of field findings.

Day 5 – Final Presentations and Reflections

The final day featured individual reflections and group presentations. Each group delivered an independent contribution—ranging from ideas for future studies to concrete proposals for applying collected data in turtle conservation efforts in Slovenia and Italy.

The presentations were analytical, innovative, and demonstrated a strong grasp of research methods and conservation goals.

About the LIFE URCA PROEMYS Project

LIFE URCA PROEMYS is a five-year international project aimed at the long-term conservation of European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) populations in Slovenia and Italy. The student camp was offered free of charge and implemented as part of project activities.

The project is led by WWF Italy, with Slovenian partners:

• Public Institute Ljubljansko barje,
• Soline Pridelava soli d.o.o.,
• and seven Italian partner organizations.

Acknowledgements

We extend sincere thanks to all students, lecturers, mentors, the CŠOD team, and the staff of the Sečovlje Salina Nature Park for their dedicated support and collaboration.

The camp fostered deeper connections among participants and strengthened our shared commitment to research, education, and the protection of biodiversity.