Tortoises · Genus: Testudo
Hermann's tortoise
IntermediateTestudo hermanni
The Hermann's tortoise (Testudo hermanni) is one of the most commonly kept tortoises in Central Europe. It is native to the northern Mediterranean region. Its range extends from northeastern Spain through southern France and Italy to the Balkans, Greece, and European Turkey. A distinction is made between a smaller western form (T. h. hermanni) and a larger eastern form (T. h. boettgeri). This diurnal, herbivorous species feeds on wild herbs rich in crude fiber and enters a winter dormancy lasting several months each year. It can only be kept in a species-appropriate manner in a sunny outdoor enclosure with a cold frame or greenhouse. Keeping it solely in a terrarium is insufficient. The species is suitable for owners with a garden who are willing to assume responsibility for decades and comply with registration and identification requirements.
- Origin
- Central Europe
- Activity time
- Diurnal
- Overwintering
- Yes
- Overwintering details
- Adult animals hibernate for about 3-5 months at a constant temperature of 4-6 °C, for example, in a separate refrigerator or a frost-free, rat-proof room. Prior to this, the temperature and feeding are gradually reduced over a period of 2-4 weeks. Juveniles usually undergo a shorter period of hibernation during their first year.
- Social behavior
- A solitary animal with no fixed pair bond. A male with several females or an all-female group is suitable. Keeping them in pairs or with multiple males often leads to constant stress and fighting.
Biology & traits
- Shell length
- 12-20 cm
- Weight
- 0.35-2.5 kg
- Breeding possible
- Yes
- Lifespan
- 50–80 years
Terrarium & outdoor enclosure
- Temperature
- 22-28 °C
- Air humidity
- 50-70 %
- Basking spot
- 35-40 °C
- Lighting
- Required
- Minimum outdoor enclosure size (adult)
- 15 m²
- Substrate
- A mixture of soil, sand, and clay that is suitable for digging and unfertilized. A feeding area on a stone slab: in the outdoor enclosure, additional stones, gravel, and a herb meadow.
Nutrition & care
- Feeding notes
- Wild herbs rich in roughage (dandelion, plantain, deadnettle, chickweed, goose thistle, mallow) and hay year-round. No fruit, no animal-based food, and lettuce only as a last resort. A cuttlebone is always available.