Study

Movement patterns and habitat use of soft-released translocated spur-thighed tortoises, Testudo graeca

  • Published source details Attum O., Otoum M., Amr Z. & Tietjen B. (2011) Movement patterns and habitat use of soft-released translocated spur-thighed tortoises, Testudo graeca. European Journal of Wildlife Research (formerly Zeitschrift für Jagdwissenschaft 1955-2003), 57, 251–258.

Actions

This study is summarised as evidence for the following.

Action Category

Translocate adult or juvenile reptiles: Tortoises, terrapins, side-necked & softshell turtles

Action Link
Reptile Conservation
  1. Translocate adult or juvenile reptiles: Tortoises, terrapins, side-necked & softshell turtles

    A replicated study in 2007–2008 in one mixed forest in Jordan (Attum et al. 2011) found that translocated spur-thighed tortoises Testudo graeca survived at least 4–11 months, and most had similar range sizes to resident tortoises. Six of seven translocated tortoises survived for the whole 11-month study period, and one tortoise was lost after four months when the transmitter failed. The average range size of translocated tortoises that were tracked for 11 months (6 ha, excluding for one female who ranged 98 ha) was similar to resident tortoises (6 ha). Seven tortoises were confiscated from tortoise sellers, and in June 2007, they were equipped with radio transmitters and released at one release site. Two resident tortoises were fitted with transmitters in October 2007 and February 2008. Translocated tortoises were released just prior to the aestivation period in August–September. All tortoises were located three times/week for 4–11 months following release.

    (Summarised by: Maggie Watson, William Morgan)

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