Emys orbicularis
European pond turtle

Emys orbicularis, commonly known as European pond turtles, is found in southern and central Europe, northwestern Africa (roughly Morocco through to Tunisia), and in humid areas of the Middle East and Central Asia as far east as the Aral Sea. Historically the species was more common and had a wider distribution than it does today. (Gadow, 1958; Harless and Morlock, 1979)

This species lives in freshwater areas, including ponds, lakes, slow-moving streams and other lentic regions. They select terrestrial locations with open, high, and sandy soil habitats for nesting. These turtles search for habitats in shallow, fertile areas with adequate food supplies and minimal predators. (Bodie, 2001; Gadow, 1958)

Extensively variable coloration is seen within this generally small species, however there is usually some light speckling on a dark (often black) background color. The shape and coloration of the shell changes with age. Young E. orbicularis have a rounded shell, and the shields are rough and slightly keeled, uniformly dark brown above and black below, with a yellow spot on each marginal and plastral shield along the rim of the carapace. As they age, the dorsal shields become smooth and are generally spotted or striated with yellow markings on a dark background. The head, limbs, and tail are dark with yellow or light brown spots and small dots. Shell size ranges from 12 to 38 cm (5 to 15 in.) and they have 12 pairs of marginal shields. The head is covered with smooth skin and the limbs are extensively webbed. Emys orbicularis has a flexible hinged plastron that is loosely united to the carapace by ligaments. Males of this species mature earlier and generally remain smaller than females, but they have similar growth rates. (Feldman and Parham, 2002; Gadow, 1958; Harless and Morlock, 1979)

Embryos of E. orbicularis exhibit temperature-dependent sex determination, based on egg incubation temperature and hormonal factors that cause gonadal differentiation. During the thermosensitive period of incubation, eggs at temperatures below 25 degrees C will become male embryos, while eggs at temperatures above 30 degrees C will become female embryos. Posthatchling growth includes body elongation and development of a streamlined body structure. The tails of young are nearly as long as the shell, but become shorter with age. Specimens about 5 inches in length are considered fully developed adults. Males of this species mature earlier and generally remain smaller than females, but they have similar growth rates. Growth is responsive to and limited by ecological factors, including hatchling size, food availability, genetic factors, and quality of their habitats. Alterations of diet and prolonged activity affect growth rate. Growth rate decreases as size increases and slows considerably following sexual maturity. (Belaid et al., 2001; Gans, 1985; Harless and Morlock, 1979)

Compared to many other reptiles and amphibians, this species has a relatively long lifespan. Individuals living in northern populations tend to exhibit longer lifespans than those in more southern locations. Records have shown average Emys orbicularis turtles living fifteen years or longer and adults may potentially live for decades. Mortality is very high for hatchlings due to abundant predators and lack of protection from the elements. Captive individuals may live several years longer than those living in natural populations. The age of turtles can be determined by counting the annuli growth rings on the scutes of the shell. It is assumed that only one growth ring forms annually.

During the day, these turtles bask with their bodies stretched out for long periods of time upon stones or banks lying motionless. From underwater, they survey the area and prey with just the nose and eyes emerged above the surface, or conceal themselves behind or within floating vegetation. They hibernate during the cold season buried in the mud and do not reappear until late spring.

Studies have shown male dominance hierarchies, particularly during breeding seasons. They may also exhibit territoriality and agonistic behaviors during food competition. Their behavioral movements include head extension, bobbing, biting, and similar activities. They have been known to assume dominant and subordinate postures. In captivity they become very tame, but in their native habitats they are extremely shy and cautious.

Adults exhibit pair-bonding and live in small groups. Their activities and behaviors are altered by changes in season and environmental conditions. For example, feeding decreases with decreased temperatures. Generally, this species performs regional migration, emigration, and active foraging. They can remain below water for many hours before returning to the surface. (Gadow, 1958; Gans, 1985; Harless and Morlock, 1979)

During the mating season members of this species emit short piping sounds. Other possible vocalizations include whistles, chirps, and groans, which are often used in stressful situations. Head movements are also used to communicate. Auditory stimuli may be involved in mating rituals. (Gadow, 1958; Harless and Morlock, 1979)

Emys orbicularis is a generalsit carnivore diet. Most small aquatic animals are prey, and their diet may shift as they grow and can eat larger animals. Worms, insects, frogs, and fishes comprise their main sources of sustenance and they generally feed in water. These turtles attack and capture their prey, biting with a sideward turn of the head, then tearing the prey to pieces with sharp claws on the forelimbs. Generally, in the wild, their prey must be moving to be seized. In captivity, these turtles may resort to eating fruits and vegetables. (Gadow, 1958)

Hinges in the plastron allow these turtles to withdraw into the shell and close off shell openings as protection from predators. Hatchlings and eggs are preyed upon by various animals including: herons, raccoons, bears, king snakes, ghost crabs, hermit crabs, dogs, gulls, alligators, crocodiles, foxes, rats, cats, and cormorants. Young turtles are at risk of becoming prey to predacious fish species as well. Adult E. orbicularis are subject to attack by wild dogs, coyotes, carnivorous birds, and humans. (Gadow, 1958; Gans, 1985; Harless and Morlock, 1979)

Emys orbicularis serves a significant role in the food web of freshwater habitats. They prey upon worms, insects, frogs, and fishes, and are in turn preyed upon by other reptiles, fish, predatory birds, and large mammals. (Gadow, 1958)

Emys orbicularis is generally harmless and does not normally have extensive contact with humans

(Gadow 1958).

Freshwater turtles, including Emys orbicularis, are hunted as sources of food, used for medicinal applications, and kept as pets. (Bodie, 2001)

Populations of Emys orbicularis have been declining over the past century. Their geographic range has diminished and it will most likely continue to decrease duet to habitat destruction. Several solutions may be successful in replenishing these populations. Governmental and ecological organizations will need to regulate turtle hunters and egg collectors, protect habitats, and reduce destructive factors, including pollution and siltation. (Bodie, 2001; Harless and Morlock, 1979)

Emys orbicularis is the only species in this genus. E. orbicularis was previously named Testudo orbicularis and Testudo europaea. This is the only species in the Emydidae to reach geographic ranges above 45 degrees latitude. (Feldman and Parham, 2002; Harless and Morlock, 1979)