Greek Tortoise
Common Name:
Greek Tortoise
Scientific Name:
Testudo graeca
IUCN Status:
Vulnerable
Risks: Loss and fragmentation of their habitat. Illegal pet trade.
Diet: Edible weeds, thistles and vegetative debris
Size: Females 25 cm while males 15-17 cm.
Weight: 200g to 3 kg depending on subspecies.
Lifespan: 50-75 years in the wild with up to 125 years in zoos.
Fun Facts
- Greek tortoise is also known as the spur-thighed tortoise and the Morrish Tortoise.
- These animals constantly create an overnight "scrape", which is a nest made beneath sharp oak shrubs. They are used by several tortoises, and you can see their trails coming out of them.
- A tortoise cannot crawl out of its shell because it is permanently attached to its spine and rib cage. The top of the shell is a “carapace,” and the bottom is a “plastron.” A tortoise can feel pain and pressure through their shells, just like humans can feel pressure through our fingernails.
About Us
The Greek Tortoise is located in the Affinity Learning Centre.