Veterinary medicine in reintroduction and reinforcement of the European pond turtle Emys orbicularis: a review.

Abstract

The European pond turtle Emys orbicularis is among the most endangered reptile species in Europe, facing severe population decline due to habitat loss and environmental degradation. Conservation efforts increasingly rely on translocation-based strategies, including species reintroduction and reinforcement. Veterinary medicine plays a crucial role in ensuring the health and survival of captive-bred and translocated individuals, yet standardized health assessment protocols remain scarce. This review based on 418 publications synthesizes current veterinary practices related to freshwater turtle conservation, focusing on health monitoring before, during, and after translocation. We evaluate key medical concerns across different life stages, including prevention of zootechnical issues, pathogen screening, microbiome health, and adaptation challenges in captive and wild populations. Additionally, we propose standardized health assessment guidelines to improve diagnostic accuracy and long-term monitoring, and provide a global overview of the common health issues as well as normal blood reference values. By fostering transdisciplinary collaboration between veterinarians, researchers and conservationists, this study aims to refine best practices and ensure sustainable, evidence-based conservation efforts for E. orbicularis and other freshwater turtle species.