Hermann's Tortoise - Five Sisters Zoo

The Hermann’s Tortoise has a high domes shell that is yellow in colour with black markings. The head and legs are dark in colour with a yellow spot on either side of the head.  Males will have a spike on the tip of their tail which is not present in females.

Facts

Diet: Herbivore; variety of plants and grasses which vary depending on habitat.

Weight: 0.5-1.3kg

Length: 12-18cm

Habitat: Coast of the Mediterranean and Adriatic Sea, parts of Albania, Serbia, Greece and Bulgaria; arid, dry and rocky areas preferred and will avoid wet areas.

Life Span: 30-90 years

Adapted to Survive

  • Can burrow into the ground for safety and protection from the weather
  • Tail acts as a kickstand in the event the tortoise is flipped and is then able to right themselves

Threats

  • Illegal wildlife and pet trade
  • Habitat loss and fragmentation

IUCN Conservation Status

Vulnerable

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