Recent findings from the Estación Biológica de Doñana highlight a drastic decline in the two native turtle species within the national park, with nearly 80% of the population disappearing over the past 30 years. This alarming trend is attributed to the over-exploitation of the aquifer and the degradation of local lagoons, which are crucial for the turtles' survival. The study, which will be published in Biological Conservation, underscores that without urgent intervention, these species face a 'real risk of local extinction.'

The European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis), identified as the most sensitive species and a key bioindicator for the health of the wetland ecosystem, has experienced a staggering loss of 74% of its population. This highlights not only the plight of these turtles but also signals broader environmental concerns for the wetland habitat they rely on. The data suggest that the ecosystem as a whole is under significant threat, demanding immediate conservation efforts to halt these declining trends.

The implications of this study extend beyond just the turtles themselves; they point to a larger environmental crisis in Doñana National Park. Conservationists and scientists are calling for urgent actions, such as improved water management and habitat restoration, to reverse the decline in turtle populations and protect the biodiversity within this vital wetland. The situation in Doñana serves as a critical reminder of the fragile state of natural ecosystems and the urgent need for proactive measures in conservation efforts across the region.