What Predators Do Pond Turtles Have?

The Hermann’s turtle (Testudo hermanni) and the boettgeri turtle (Testudo hermaanni boettgeri) are turtles of the Testudinidae family, or more commonly known as land turtles or tortoises. Unlike aquatic turtles, they do not need a waterway to live, they have a more rounded carapace and massive legs with claws. Even in captivity, they are subject to serious risks: what are the predators for these two turtles?

Risks even in captivity for these terrestrial turtles

It is not because Hermann’s or boettgeri turtles are not in the wild in freedom that their life is without risks. If we let them gambol in the garden, for example, it is obviously necessary to avoid the possible zones which would have been treated by chemicals or pesticides. Another potential danger? Aquatic basins, ponds or other pools: of a rather curious nature, the tortoise has quickly made to drown there. Another advice ? It is always necessary to verify that the tortoise is well in its enclosure before mowing the lawn: the blade of a mower could unfortunately decapitate the animal. Finally, for those who live in an apartment with a balcony or a terrace, be careful with falls.

Numerous predators for the turtle of hermann and boettgeri
If the tortoise is in freedom out of its enclosure and that it walks, it can unfortunately cross the way of numerous predators:

• dogs: being able to think that it is a bone to be gnawed, the dogs cause numerous and dangerous wounds. It goes from a gnawed piece of carapace, for example, to severed legs: vigilance is therefore necessary.
• Rats : particularly fond of the eggs of turtles living in the wild, they can still attack turtles raised in captivity which are walking around. Their bites are very dangerous.
• Snakes : by definition a carnivorous reptile, the snake may want to feast on a baby turtle, or even a juvenile turtle. Once it reaches adulthood, it represents less danger for these animals.
• In summary, it is recommended to avoid as much as possible leaving your turtle unattended if it is not in its terrarium: a precautionary principle that will normally avoid many problems.