Good news! Dobrogea spur-thighed tortoise population has doubled

The Dobrogea spur-thighed tortoise population has doubled in the last 12 years according to the Macinului mountains National Park Administration.

Today there are around 4,000 spur-thighed tortoises and although it seems like a small number, this is a significant increase of the population. Viorel Rosca, the director of the administration has pointed out that the increase in spur-thighed tortoise numbers shows that the national park has optimal environment conditions.

The Dobrogea spur-thighed tortoise also called Testudo greca ibera, lives up to 125 years. It mainly lives in sandy or dry areas and loves hot weather. During the harsh winters in Romania, when temperatures can go down to -20 degrees, the spur-thighed tortoise goes underground and hibernates.

The administration now wants to monitor the evolution of the population and for this purpose, it will access European funds.

source: agerpres

source photo:info-delta.ro