For the second consecutive year, the Hermann’s Tortoise has bred in the Vall Major of Bovera (SW Catalonia), thanks to the Reinforcement Project carried out in the area by CRARC (Catalonian Amphibians and Reptiles Recovery Center) in collaboration with the Trenca NGO.
We have great news! For the second consecutive year we have found pups of Hermann’s Tortoise in this area of the Garrigues (SW Catalonia). That means that the habitat is suitable for the species after releasing 60 adult individuals during the last year and a half.
Turtles have a biological cycle marked by the seasons: From the end of October until mid March they hibernate; After their spring activation they mate and lay eggs during June and early July, so the eggs hatch between August and September. The little tortoises born this year have been feeding and now they are already digging their shelters to spend the winter in state of lethargy (hibernation)
© M.Gálvez / Trenca
There are many dangers that haunt Hermann’s Tortoise such as fire, predation, habitat loss and plunder. It is an autochthonous species and therefore its collection in nature and maintenance in captivity is illegal and is punishable by heavy fines.
If you find a Hermann’s Tortoise, leave it where it is and do not cause discomfort, thank you very much!
This proposal is supported by Montsant Natural Parc, CRARC (Recovery Center of Amphibians and Reptiles of Catalonia), Bovera Council, Fundación Biodiversidad (Spanish Goverment), Club EMAS, Balearic Islands Goverment, GOB Menorca and ENDESA. Trenca Association and CRARC are responsible for release, control and monitoring.