As part of the DANUBEdragonCONSERVATION project, habitat restoration efforts for the Danube Crested Newt (Triturus dobrogicus) have been carried out in Serbia. Our project partner, PE Vojvodinašume, has successfully implemented revitalization activities in two sites: Gornje Podunavlje Special Nature Reserve and Koviljsko-Petrovaradinski Rit Special Nature Reserve.
Gornje Podunavlje Special Nature Reserve
In the Kolut-Kozara area (Forest Unit "Kolut-Kozara"), a potential habitat was prepared by creating a new pond. This site, which is periodically submerged, features marshy vegetation, including Carex and Juncus species, making it an ideal environment for Triturus sp.
During implementation in December 2024, excavation work was carried out to create a 4m-long and 2m-deep pond with a gradual descent ramp. Due to high water levels at the time, a full assessment of the excavation was not possible, but preliminary inspections confirmed the location’s suitability. The extracted sediment was examined, revealing only minor aquatic fauna, such as snails.
Revitalization activities were monitored by PE Vojvodinašume in collaboration with external experts from the Department of Biology, University of Novi Sad. Full-scale monitoring and eDNA analysis will be implemented in March 2025, following pre-monitoring efforts conducted in 2024.
Koviljsko-Petrovaradinski Rit Special Nature Reserve
Two existing ponds, Vuga Pond and Medakova Rupa, were selected for revitalization due to their suitable characteristics for Triturus sp. Over time, these ponds had lost depth due to sediment accumulation and occasional drying.
In December 2024, dredging was carried out using a 360-degree rotating excavator to minimize habitat disturbance. The ponds were deepened up to 2 meters, while ensuring minimal damage to shoreline vegetation.
As with Gornje Podunavlje, these activities were supervised by PE Vojvodinašume and external experts from the University of Novi Sad.
Next Steps
These habitat restoration activities mark a crucial step in improving breeding and living conditions for the Danube Crested Newt. Regular monitoring and eDNA analysis will provide further insights into the effectiveness of these interventions and guide future conservation strategies within the DANUBEdragonCONSERVATION project.
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For more information please contact: ivana.vasic@vojvodinasume.rs