Greek Tortoise
(Testudo graeca)

Greek tortoises have highly variable colors that can range from olive with dark spots in the middle of each scute on the carapace to a "golden" form which is almost entirely yellow in appearance. Greek tortoises can be found in southern Spain, northern Africa, eastern Europe, and the Middle East. The Greek tortoise is a smaller sized tortoise and is only six to seven inches in length.

Difficulty

NOVICE to MODERATE: The Greek tortoise's smaller size make it an excellent choice for hobbyists to keep. Greek tortoise do require specialized lighting.

Requirements

An enclosure, such as:

• Custom constructed enclosure

Substrate, such as:

• Sand/Soil mix

A heating element, such as:

• UV producing bulb
• Under the tank heater
• Incandescent heat bulb
• Ceramic infrared heat emitters

Enclosure

An open “turtle table” of approximately four feet long by two feet wide by one to two feet deep makes and excellent eclosure for an adult Greek Tortoise though the bigger the better. Often preformed plastic garden ponds can be easily converted for this task. Aquariums are not recommended for tortoises as they do not allow proper air circulation. Very large screen enclosures may also be adequate.

Substrate

The substrate or bedding that you use is one of the most important parts of your Greek tortoise's home, since your tortoise will be spending all of its time on it. Greek tortoises like to dig and burrow. It is important to give the tortoise something that they can burrow in. A mix of 50% sterile play sand and a 50% organic soil works well. Aspen shavings, milled coconut fiber also make good choices. Pine, cedar, and oyster shells should be avoided.

Heating and Light

Greek tortoises should have daytime temperatures of 75°F to 85°F with a 90°F to 95°F basking area under a spotlight. Nightime temperatures should be 70°F to 75°F. Greek tortoises require UV light for proper metabolic and bone development. This can be provided with fluorecent bulbs or mercury vapor spot lights which also provide heat. A spotlight with an appropriate wattage incandescnet bulb or ceramic emitter can be used to provide heat. Many hobbyists will install thermometers or thermostats in the enclsosure to be able to accurately maintain these temperatures. Heated rocks and caves are never recommended for your Greek tortoise as they can lead to burs

Diet

The Greek tortoise is strictly herbivorous and requires a high fiber, low protein and calcium rich diet. Dark leafy greens such as kale, dandelion, mustard, collard and turnip greens should be offered regularly. Natural grasses and hays can also be provided. High protein foods such as commercially prepared dog and cat food and beans should always be avoided since this may cause renal failure due to the excessive protein. Fruits should be given sparingly to your Greek tortoise since too many fruits will result in diarrhea and other health issues. If calcium supplementation is required try to use pure calcium carbonate. The bone of the cuttle fish can also be used and is commonly found in pet shops for calcium supplementation for birds. Fresh water should be offered at all times in a shallow dish. Your tortoise will also appreciate a 10-minute soak in a shallow bath water to ensure proper hydration.