Keeping tortoises: profile and care
A calm, long-lived pet – housing, lighting and diet
At a glance
- Example: Hermann's tortoise, up to around 2.5 kg as an adult
- Lifespan: often over 50 years, some species more than 100
- Origin: the Mediterranean region
- Housing: an outdoor enclosure is highly recommended
The right vivarium
A spacious enclosure with sandy and rocky areas, hides and – wherever possible – a secure outdoor enclosure. A tortoise starter kit measures around 100 cm in length.
Temperature, lighting & climate
- 25–30 °C depending on species, with a basking spot up to 35 °C
- Correct lighting including UV light is essential
- Sandy and stony substrates
Feeding
Entirely plant-based: herbs and wild plants.
Temperament & handling
Calm, diurnal and solitary, with settled routines – tortoises need plenty of space and live to a great age.