The current distribution and status of the Hermann’s tortoise, Testudo hermanni boettgeri (Reptilia, Testudines, Testudinidae) in Croatia

Hermann’s tortoise ( Testudo hermanni ) is listed as “Near threatened” in the IUCN Red list of endangered species. The importance protecting populations and its habitats have led to inclusion species within CITES Convention (Annex II), Annex A EU Wildlife Trade Regulation, II Bern Annexes IV Habitats Directive. To assess distribution status eastern boettgeri Croatia, historical recent records were gathered analyzed. was recorded all three biogeographical regions country, but it’s native Mediterranean a small part Alpine region. With increase surveys use citizen science platforms, known range Croatia increased by 35.8% now encompassing 123 10 × km EEA reference grid cells. Most (66%) originate from lower elevations (up 199 m), highest at 570 m. Sparse forests are most preferred habitats, followed semi-open such grasslands shrubs. serious threat natural succession due abandonment traditional farming grazing. Other threats include touristic infrastructure urban development, transportation, illegal collecting, invasive Area Occupancy calculated using 2 grids resulted an AOO 1,372.00 , while Extent Occurrence (EOO) be 18,145.07 . current network National protected areas includes 14% species’ designated Natura 2000 29.30% AOO. We propose designate additional help with long-term protection