
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Testudo hermanni
Small to medium tortoise from temperate regions. Adapts relatively well to Japanese climate. Active and curious personality.
Hermann's tortoise (Testudo hermanni) is a small to medium-sized tortoise native to the Mediterranean regions of southern Europe, including southern France, Italy, the Balkans, and several Aegean islands. Adults typically reach 15–25 cm in carapace length, with females generally larger than males. The carapace is attractively patterned with contrasting yellow and black markings. Hermann's tortoises inhabit dry scrubland, garrigue, and open woodland, where they graze on a variety of grasses, herbs, and fruits. They are active and inquisitive by nature. Due to their temperate origins they are among the hardiest of the Mediterranean tortoises and can tolerate a wider range of conditions than more tropical species.
The Hermanns Tortoise lives 30-50 years.
They are long-lived, with lifespans commonly exceeding 30–50 years.
The Hermanns Tortoise grows to 15-25cm.
The ideal temperature for the Hermanns Tortoise is 22〜30℃.
Origin
Mediterranean regions of southern Europe (Italy, Spain, France, Balkans)
Lifespan
30-50 years
Size
15-25cm
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Testudo hermanni Gmelin, 1789
Synonyms: Chersine hermanni (Gmelin, 1789), Eurotestudo hermanni (Gmelin, 1789), Testudo enriquesi Parenzan, 1932, Testudo graeca bettai Lataste, 1881, Testudo graeca var. boettgeri Mojsisovics, Testudo graeca var. hercegovinensis Werner, 1899
Authority databases: GBIF · Reptile Database
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Checklist (Testudinidae spp. Appendix II) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Temperature
22〜30℃
Humidity
40〜70%
Weeds and vegetables (dandelion, greens)
22-30°C (basking 35°C)
An outdoor pen with diggable soil is ideal; indoors, use an enclosure of 60cm or more with heating. Use a moisture-retaining substrate such as coco coir.
UVB lighting is essential, and outdoor sunbathing on fine days is recommended too. Use a basking lamp to create a spot of around 35°C.
A plant-based diet centered on grasses, vegetables and greens such as dandelion and komatsuna is the basis. Add calcium to keep the shell and bones healthy.
It tolerates some cold, but in Japan's harsh winters manage it with heating equipment. Being active and curious, it needs an escape-proof enclosure.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Hermanns Tortoise is 22〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Hermanns Tortoise is 30-50 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Hermanns Tortoise typically reaches 15-25cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Hermanns Tortoise feeds on: Weeds and vegetables (dandelion, greens). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Hermanns Tortoise varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026