Hermann's Tortoise Size report
The Hermann's tortoise is a yellow-brown, thick-scaled tortoise native to Mediterranean Europe. Hermann's tortoises have two subspecies: the eastern Hermann's tortoise and the western Hermann's tortoise, and both are found in the pet trade.
Hermann's tortoises have a strong body and a lively personality, so they have become one of the most popular tortoise species to keep as pets, and it is easy to see why. These tortoises are beautiful, fairly low-maintenance, and fun to observe.
Hermann's tortoises will develop a bond of companionship with their owner, and you should get to know their quirks, likes, and dislikes if you plan to keep one. Before purchasing a pet turtle, you should fully confirm the local animal protection regulations and the species of tortoises you are purchasing. After all, no one wants to be fined or raise a weird turtle.
Hermann's Tortoise Description
Named after the famed French naturalist Johann Herman, Hermann's tortoise (scientific name: Testudo hermanni) is a beautiful reptile with a calm demeanor. The population is split up into two subspecies. The distribution of Eastern Hermann's tortoises stretches from Eastern Italy to Western Turkey. Meanwhile, Western Hermann's tortoises are found throughout Spain, France, and surrounding areas. Known for their passive and gentle nature, these tortoises make wonderful pets who will company their owners their whole life.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Common name: | Hermann's tortoise |
| Scientific name: | Testudo hermanni |
| Adult size: | 6-8 inches |
| Life span: | up to 75 years, or longer |
| Diet: | leafy greens, fruits, vegetables |
| Housing: | Minimum 2 by 4 feet, 80–86 °F, 25% humidity |
Appearance
Hermann's tortoises have round, yellow carapaces with large black markings on each scutellum. The head is black and slightly yellow and hooked the upper beak. The limbs are yellow, with 5-10 rows of small scales on the front limbs, 5 claws on the front limbs, and 4 claws on the hind limbs. The tail is short.
Adult Size
The average Hermann's tortoise size varies based on the subspecies. The most common subspecies, the Western Hermann's tortoise, is the smallest.
- Hermann's Tortoises have an average adult size of 6-8 inches and rarely grow larger than 18 cm (7.5 inches).
- The Eastern subspecies reach a full size of about 11 inches.
Life span
The oldest known Hermann's tortoise in the UK was over 110 years. Hermann's tortoises have a long lifespan with the right care. A healthy and happy Hermann's tortoise is expected to live for up to about 50-75 years without hibernation under feeding conditions and about 120 years in hibernation on time. Hibernation is not recommended for small tortoises within 5 cm of the carapace.
Living Habits
Because of the high latitude, the European continent has obvious seasonal changes; the natural climate tends to be moist during the spring and fall but very dry in the summer. So Hermann's tortoises can adapt to this environment with obvious temperature and humidity changes and migrate to find suitable places or hibernate to survive in harsh environments.
The natural habitat of Hermann's tortoise includes Mediterranean evergreen and oak forests with arid, rocky hill slopes and scrubby vegetation, herbaceous scrub, and grassy hillsides. Due to habitat destruction and poaching for the pet trade, Hermann's tortoises are listed in the IUCN Red category - near threatened.
Conclusion
Raising any pet requires time and patience. You need to know more details about raising Herman's tortoises. Prepare a climate similar to that of southern European countries for your Hermann's tortoises. If possible, outdoor housing is preferred during warm weather months. Indoor housing must be large enough to allow them to roam. Hermann's tortoises have a standard plant-eating diet. The daily bait should be mainly dark leafy vegetables and fresh fruits and vegetables.
