Mediterranean Spur-thighed Tortoise

Mediterranean Spurthigh Tortoise at Wingham Wildlife Park

Mediterranean Spur-thighed Tortoise Natural Tortoise

Size

The average size of these tortoises is 8 inches in length (20 cm).

Habitat and Distribution

The main habitat groups for this tortoise are the dry Mediterranean forests and semi-arid scrubland of Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, Iran, Syria, Jordan and Iraq.

Age

It is thought that this species can live for 70 to 100 years.

Diet

As with most tortoises this one is completely vegetarian, feeding in the wild mainly on lush grasses and leafy plants it can find in its dry surroundings.

Groups and Breeding

After mating (usually just after the rainy season) the female of this species can lay clutches of up to 30 eggs in soil after 60 days. These take 12 weeks to incubate and hatchlings are only 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) long.

Threats

The IUCN lists them as a Vulnerable species, threatened by habitat loss and over collection for the pet trade..

Interesting Facts

There are five sub-species of Mediterranean tortoise.

The Mediterranean Spur-thighed Tortoise During Your Day Out in Kent

 The Mediterranean Spur-thighed Tortoise at Wingham Wildlife Park shares an enclosure with several other tortoise species just outside out Reptile House.