Restoration of Significant Species within the Framework of the UrbUmbrella Project – Release of European Pond Turtles (Emys Orbicularis) into Daugavpils Wetland

On July 15, 2026, at 10:00, the release of 10 European pond turtles (*Emys orbicularis*) into the wild is scheduled, aiming to foster the recovery of this significant native species within the Daugavpils wetlands.

Location: next to Ruģeļi ponds: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hAMncVUoR7vCM9DdA  Please, park your car by the roadside, do not drive into the forest track!

The landscape of the Ruģeļi wetlands in Daugavpils is notable for its high diversity of amphibian and reptile species. 16 species native of Latvia have been identified within the project area.

To mitigate the degradation of wetland habitats and improve the status of herpetofauna populations in the project area, expert research has led to the development of habitat restoration and nature conservation measures. These include the control and isolation of invasive species, the restoration of potential breeding sites for herpetofauna, and the release of 10 pond turtles into the wild.

Amphibians and reptiles are particularly vulnerable, with the European pond turtle being the most at-risk among them. They are highly sensitive to pollution and various environmental factors due to their permeable skin and their lifestyle, which spans both land and water. Consequently, the most critical activities within the UrbUmbrella project focus on improving urban habitats for amphibians and reptiles in the Ruģeļi wetlands. Before the project, the area near the Ruģeļi ponds was completely overgrown with invasive vegetation and was not suitable for sustaining biodiversity.

This is a unique activity of nature restauration of significant local species in Daugavpils wetlands, so all interested local residents, scientists, students, nature lovers are invited to see the activity and learn more about the importance of wetlands.