Bio-diversity

Aim of the Project was reconstruction of the European pond Tortoise habitats in the most important habitat areas of the Pond tortoises in Lithuania. The Project also improved living conditions of other rare and protected species: Bombina bombina, Triturus cristatus. The population of the Pond tortoise was carefully investigated, and a registry of observed individuals was created. This measure is very important as pond tortoise individuals differ from each other through whole their life cycle. This way it will be possible to follow migration of individuals. Investigation also helped to detect where to install new breading places and small temporary water bodies for tortoise younglings. Management plan of the area was also prepared. It included planning, discussion and detection of places where to restore and dig ponds and wetlands. Bushes and young trees around ponds of turtles were cut in order to create open spaces for sunbathing of Pond tortoises. Some additional ponds were also created. Social economic benefit for the local communities was achieved through allowing local people to cut and take the trees from the protected area that can be used for heating purposes. Also local people were temporary employed during the project activities. In the future they will take care of removing bushes and trees according to the developed area management plan and can use them for heating for free.

Lithuania