Background Freshwater ecosystems are vital for biodiversity and human wellbeing. Wetlands harbour multiple organisms that are at least partially dependent on freshwaters for completing their lifecycle. Amphibians and invertebrates are key components of wetlands, and these groups contain numerous endangered species. The semi-aquatic lifecycle of these groups make them particularly susceptible to changes in the quality, abundance and distance between wetlands. The condition of surrounding terrestrial habitats is also significant. Many herptiles (reptile or amphibian) and insect species have been subject to dramatic declines due to human disturbance – e.g. draining of wetlands, urbanisation and fragmentation of the landscape. Invasive alien species, including diseases, also pose global threats to the native semi-aquatic fauna. In Europe, many herptiles and insects are dependent on Natura 2000 sites and other protected areas for their long-term survival. A key factor for long-term survival of reptiles or amphibians and insects with limited dispersal abilities is that populations must be able to thrive in a metapopulation. This means that there must be a minimum number of suitable breeding sites within dispersal distance. Moreover, the terrestrial environment must also provide suitable habitats for feeding, hibernation and protection against predators. Previous work at Natura 2000 sites typically focused on actions in either aquatic or terrestrial habitats. Objectives The objective of the SemiAquaticLife project is to restore and improve the conservation status of herptiles and semi-aquatic insects in Natura 2000 sites in southern Sweden (11 sites), Denmark (19 sites) and Germany (9 sites). The goal is to ensure viable metapopulations of species listed in the annexes of the Habitats Directive. Focus will be on listed herptiles and invertebrates and improvement of both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Another objective is to increase awareness and acceptance among stakeholders and the general public of the need for restoration actions for semiaquatic fauna and herptiles. Finally, the main results of the project will be summarised in guidelines of best practices that will provide European conservation recommendations. Expected results: Some 179-207 new wetlands created and 196 wetlands restored by digging and restoring wetlands; Hibernation spots created with 148 piles of gravel, stones, dead wood or shrubberies; Some 57 ha of bushes, trees and invasive flora cleared and fencing erected for 8.8 km; Species reintroduction and supportive breeding for Lacerta agilis (DE), Bombina, bombina (DK, DE, SE), Pelobates fuscus (DE, SE), Bufo viridis (DE), Hyla arborea (DK), Epidalea calamita (DK, SE); Information material and exhibitions (E-actions) aimed at the public offering an introduction to the life and ecology of the semi-aquatic fauna and herptiles; Site specific management plans for future conservation produced for all 40 project sites; Outcome of the conservation actions assessed by monitoring colonisation success of the listed semi-aquatic fauna and herptiles in the restored/created habitats. (The conditions for a viable metapopulation are expected to be established during the project period and good population status of the focus species not later than five years after completion of the project.); Monitoring of the ecosystem services and the socio-economic aspects providing additional information about the effects of restoration actions not just for biodiversity, but also for human well-being; and A comprehensive guide on how to successfully apply and evaluate ‘best practice’ methods for restoration of aquatic and terrestrial habitats.