Conservation activities for European and Sicilian pond turtles (Emys orbicularis and Emys trinacris, respectively) in Italy.

Two species of pond turtles belonging to the genus Emys are currently recognized in Italy: E. orbicularis in mainland Italy and Sardinia, and E. trinacris in Sicily. The largest populations occur in protected areas of the Po River Delta, of Tuscany, Latium, Campania and Calabria. There is, however, still large uncertainty about the numerical consistence of Emys populations in Italy. In the last century, pond turtles experienced a strong decline in Italy. According to the publication of the European Commission (2009), since 1992 nine Italian Life-Nature projects specifically targeting Emys orbicularis or its habitats have been funded. In very few cases, the restoration and creation of new habitats suitable for the species have been undertaken. The complete absence of coordination between these local projects has to be stressed. Very limited exchange of experiences or good practices obtained from these conservation activities is shared, even during national herpetological meetings, and only a few scientific publications arose from these projects. In the future will require greater coordination between the various projects to optimize available resources and improve the effectiveness of management actions.