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Reptiles and amphibians (collectively known as herpetofauna) are not only one of the most diverse groups of vertebrates in Europe, they are also among the most colourful, as the many excellent photographs in this publication
illustrate.
Sadly, many herpetofauna species are also among the most threatened in the EU, their decline brought about by
habitat change and destruction, invasive alien species – such as the red-eared slider (Trachemys script elegans),
which competes with the native European pond turtle for food and basking spaces – and the growing impact of
climate change.
Snakes, toads and turtles are often killed out of fear or superstition, while a further threat comes from the illegal
trade in herpetofauna species for use as pets, food and medicine.
The EU Wildlife Trade Regulations, which implement the provisions of the Convention on International Trade in
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), are a cornerstone of Community policy to prevent the trade
of endangered amphibian and reptile species such as the loggerhead turtle (caretta caretta).
