Bringing together knowledge and different perspectives in turtle conservation

More than half of the turtle species are threatened with extinction. There are no native turtle species living on the Dutch mainland anymore. However, this does not mean that Dutch conservationists are not concerned about the conservation of turtle species and biodiversity. They are mainly concerned with the influence of the trade in turtles and the dumping of turtles in Dutch nature. Until recently, turtles could not reproduce in the Dutch climate, but this could change due to climate change. By combining scientific knowledge and knowledge from lived experience, a more complete picture of reality is created . This can then lead to more effective protection of turtles and biodiversity. This study investigates which different types of knowledge Dutch conservationists use in the conservation of turtles (Testudines) and the protection of Dutch nature.