Hermann’s Tortoise Natural History
Size
This species does not generally reach lengths of more than 11 inches (28cm) weighing up to 4 kg.
Habitat and Distribution
This European species lives in arid scrubland and dry forest areas of Spain, Southern France, Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily and Italy.
Age
Lifespans of 70 to 100 years have been recorded in captivity, with one in the UK being reported as sill alive at 118 years in 2009.
Diet
As with many tortoise species this one is very much a vegetarian, feeding in the wild on any lush grasses and fresh leaves it can find in its dry surroundings.
Groups and Breeding
The Hermann’s Tortoise breeds between May and July. The female will dig a nest in the soil to lay up to 12 eggs in. Hatchlings will emerge after around 90 days.
Threats
Habitat loss and capture for the pet trade are both threats to this species which is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN.
Interesting Facts
Just like other tortoises they don’t have teeth, just a strong horny beak.
The Hermann’s Tortoise During Your Day Out in Kent
We have several Hermann’s tortoises at our park in an enclosure attached to the side of the Reptile House, opposite our common cusimanse. Inside our Reptile House, we also have two hatchlings (hatched 5th March 2024).