Greek / Spur Thighed Tortoise Care

Species Type

Mediterranean

Scientific Name

Testudo graeca

Adult Size

13-20cm

Lifespan

50+ years

Humidity

Low to low-moderate

Natural Habitat

Dry, Hot, Mediterranean regions

To care for a Spur-Thighed Tortoise correctly, we must look at how and where they live in the wild.

The Greek Spur-Thighed Tortoise (Testudo graeca) is a classic Mediterranean species often kept in the UK. In the wild it ranges across southern Europe and North Africa, adapted to seasonal climates with dry summers and mild winters.

Our aim in captivity is to replicate a warm, dry environment with access to:

✔ Adequate UVB lighting

✔ A temperature gradient

✔ Space to roam and forage

✔ Seasonal variation where appropriate

Outdoor Enclosure (Primary Recommendation)

Outdoor housing is the most natural and appropriate environment for Mediterranean tortoises in suitable climates.

Enclosure Size

As large as possible. Minimum 8ft x 4ft recommended for an adult.

Key Features

  • Secure, predator-proof walls and lid
  • Dig-proof base (buried mesh)
  • In an area that gets natural sunlight
  • Well-draining dry substrate
  • Natural planting for grazing
  • Shaded areas
  • Hides for security
  • In certain climates such as the UK, a hut with supplemental lighting/heating

Substrate

  • A mix of topsoil or natural earth and sand.
  • No bark, woodchip, coco coir or artificial grass

UK Adaptations

The UK Climate is not Mediterranean, so adaptations are necessary.

You may need:

  • A cold frame or tortoise house
  • Supplemental heat lamp and UVB
  • Safe basking area
  • Shelter from excessive rain
  • Protection from damp conditions

Outdoor living should always provide:

  • A basking zone
  • A cooler retreat
  • Dry, warm sleeping area

Indoor Enclosure (Alternative Setup)

Indoor setups are sometimes necessary.

Recommended:

  • Open-topped tortoise table (not glass vivarium)
  • Minimum 4ft x 2ft for a young tortoise, larger for adults.

Lighting

  • UVB strip light (10–12% for Mediterranean species)
  • Heat flood lamp creating basking spot of 30–32°C
  • 10-12 hours light cycle

Substrate

  • Top Soil/sand mix
  • Avoid woodchip, pellets, artificial grass

Humidity
Mediterranean Tortoises do not need high humidity, even as juveniles. It is not natural for them and can lead to respiratory issues if constantly exposed to damp substrate.

Temperature gradient must always be provided:

  • Warm basking end
  • Cooler end around 20–22°C

Hydration

Always provide:

  • Fresh daily water (shallow dish)
  • Access to drinking water at all times

Tortoises can be bathed a few times a week in shallow water to encourage hydration.

Hydration is important for healthy growth and Kidney function.

Supplements

Correct supplementation supports shell and bone development.

Calcium

  • Lightly dust food 4-5 times per week
  • Provide a cuttle bone

Vitamin D3

  • Only if artificial UVB is used
  • Lightly dust 1-2 times per week
  • Not required if living outdoors with natural sunlight

Feeding Overview

Greek Spur-Thighed tortoises are primarily herbivorous grazers.

Diet should consist mainly of:

  • Fresh weeds
  • High-fibre plants/flowers
  • Some dried weeds

Avoid:

  • Fruit and vegetables
  • High-protein foods
  • Supermarket lettuce as staple
  • Pelleted diets as main food source


 Tortoise Safe Foods

Growth/Health

It is important to track your tortoises:

  • Weight
  • Straight carapace length
  • Jackson Scale
  • General Health observations

If you are concerned about your tortoises health, always seek a medical opinion from a reptile veterinarian.

You can download our printable Hermanns Tortoise Health Chart below.

 Health Chart

Brumation (Hibernation)

Brumation is the natural winter dormancy period of Mediterranean tortoises such as Hermann’s. In the wild, they retreat underground during colder months when temperatures drop and food becomes scarce.

For this species, brumation is part of their natural annual cycle.

⚠️ Important: Not Every Tortoise Should Brumate

A tortoise should only brumate if:

  • ✅ It is healthy
  • ✅ It has good body weight
  • ✅ It is parasite-free
  • ✅ It has been properly prepared

Do not brumate if:

  • ❌ Underweight
  • ❌ Recently ill
  • ❌ Respiratory symptoms
  • ❌ Runny nose or eyes
  • ❌ Soft shell issues
  • ❌ Poor growth

A pre-brumation health check with a reptile vet is strongly recommended.

How Long?

Typically:

  • 8–12 weeks

Temperature Range

3°C – 7°C

  • Below 2°C = risk of freezing
  • Above 8°C = metabolism rises and fat stores are depleted

Stable temperature is critical.

Preparation Phase (Autumn)

Preparation is gradual and essential:

  1. Reduce feeding as temperatures drop.
  2. Allow natural gut emptying.
  3. Continue offering water.
  4. Maintain hydration.

Hydration before dormancy is vital.

Brumation Methods

Common methods include:

  • Outdoor natural brumation (secure, frost-protected housing)
  • Refrigeration method (temperature-controlled and monitored)


The key principles:

  • Stable temperature
  • Good ventilation
  • Dry but not dehydrating environment
  • Regular monitoring

UK Keepers – Important Consideration

The UK climate is cooler and wetter than their natural Mediterranean habitat.

Outdoor brumation must include:

  • Secure predator-proof enclosure
  • Excellent drainage
  • Frost protection
  • Dry, insulated overnight housing

In some regions, controlled brumation indoors may be safer.

Monitoring During Brumation

Weigh before brumation begins.

During brumation:

  • Check periodically (without disturbing excessively)
  • Weight loss should be minimal
  • Excessive weight loss requires immediate action


Download Brumation Monitoring Chart below

 Brumation Chart