The tortoise (Testudinidae) is a reptile belonging to a family of turtles that is mainly found in dry and warm regions, including Southern Europe, parts of Asia and North Africa. This family includes various species of tortoise, each with its own habitat and characteristics. Depending on the species, tortoises live in steppe-like areas, dry grasslands or Mediterranean landscapes. Tortoises are active during the day and spend much of their time basking and searching for food. They use heat from their surroundings to regulate their body temperature. Behaviour can vary by species and individual, but in general tortoises are known for their calm nature. They benefit from a stable environment and consistent care. In captivity, it is important to replicate the tortoise’s natural habitat as closely as possible, with sufficient space, suitable temperature zones, UVB lighting and an enclosure that offers opportunities to hide and move around. This provides for the basic needs and supports your animal’s good condition and wellbeing.
Tortoises are naturally found in Southern Europe, parts of Asia and North Africa. Depending on the species, they live in dry grasslands, steppe regions and Mediterranean landscapes with warm summers and mild winters. These tortoises are adapted to life on land and use sunny spots to regulate their body temperature. During high temperatures or cooler periods, they seek shelter under vegetation, in burrows or beneath stones. Because they are distributed across different habitats, tortoises have adapted to a range of climate conditions.
The appearance of tortoises varies by species, but in general they have a compact and sturdy build with a hard, dome-shaped shell. Their legs are strong and suited to walking on dry surfaces and digging. The colour of the shell ranges from light yellow and brown to darker shades, often with distinct patterns. Tortoises are active during the day and spend a great deal of time basking to maintain their body temperature. They move calmly through their habitat and are mainly focused on finding food and suitable resting places. Like other reptiles, tortoises shed, with the skin and scales gradually renewing.
The tortoise family consists of several species that are mainly found in Southern Europe, parts of Asia and North Africa. Within this family, there are clear differences in size, habitat and appearance. Below are some well-known species that are also kept as pets:
What a tortoise should not eat varies by species, but in general foods high in protein and heavily processed products are unsuitable. In the wild, tortoises mainly eat fibre-rich plants, which means their digestive system is not adapted to rich or unusual foods.
In captivity, it is important to avoid foods such as animal proteins, dairy products and highly sugary or processed foods. Certain vegetables and fruits that do not fit within a fibre-rich diet should also be limited or avoided. An unsuitable diet can lead to health problems, such as growth disorders and shell deformities.
How old a tortoise can get varies by species and living conditions. In general, tortoises have a long life expectancy and can live to 40 to 100 years old. Their eventual age depends greatly on various factors, such as diet, housing and general care. A stable living environment and a suitable diet contribute to good condition and a long lifespan.
When a tortoise hibernates varies by species and depends on temperature and day length. In species from temperate climates, hibernation usually begins in autumn, when temperatures drop and the days become shorter.
In captivity, this period is often mimicked by gradually lowering the temperature and shortening the light cycle. Not all tortoises hibernate, and the timing and duration can vary. Good preparation and suitable conditions are important to ensure this resting period proceeds safely.
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) is a common condition in reptiles such as the tortoise, caused by a deficiency of calcium, vitamin D3 or insufficient UVB light. These three factors are interconnected: without enough UVB light, the body cannot produce vitamin D3, and without vitamin D3, calcium cannot be absorbed properly.
A lack of calcium weakens the skeleton and affects the bone structure. The first signs of MBD are often subtle:
MBD can be prevented by replacing the UVB lighting regularly, usually every 6 to 12 months, providing sufficient calcium and vitamin supplements, and ensuring the correct temperature and nutritional balance. A properly set up terrarium and a balanced diet are therefore essential in preventing this condition.
What a tortoise eats varies by species, but most species are herbivores. In the wild, they mainly feed on grasses, herbs, leaves and flowers. Their diet is high in fibre and low in protein.
In captivity, their diet consists of a varied mix of leafy greens, wild plants and other suitable plant-based food. It is important to provide sufficient variety and a good calcium-to-phosphorus ratio to help prevent deficiencies and bone problems (MBD). If necessary, a calcium and vitamin supplement can be added. Fresh drinking water should always be available.
How long a tortoise can go without food varies by species, age and conditions. In general, healthy tortoises can go without food for several weeks to several months because they have a slow metabolism and use energy efficiently. This occurs mainly during natural resting periods, such as hibernation.
Outside these resting periods, it is important that a tortoise eats regularly and receives a suitable diet. If a tortoise does not eat for several days to weeks while remaining active, this may indicate problems with its health, housing or environment and requires attention.
How big a tortoise gets varies by species. In many commonly kept tortoises, the shell length generally ranges from 10 to 30 cm. The final size depends on factors such as species, diet and living conditions. A suitable living environment and an appropriate diet contribute to healthy growth and development.
Yes, a tortoise can bite. However, this behaviour is not common and is usually a response to a particular stimulus. Tortoises may bite when they feel threatened, experience stress or expect food. In some cases, territorial behaviour may also play a role. In general, tortoises are calm animals, but it is important to approach them in a calm and consistent manner and to avoid unnecessary disturbance.
Caring for a tortoise requires a spacious and well-considered setup that matches the species’ natural way of life. Tortoises live on the ground and need sufficient walking space, hiding places and opportunities to dig. The enclosure must be large enough to create different climate zones and allow natural behaviour. A spacious living environment contributes to activity and overall wellbeing. Always provide a clearly defined warm zone and a cooler zone, so the tortoise can choose a suitable place itself.
Tortoises are cold-blooded and depend on their surroundings to regulate their body temperature. The enclosure should contain different temperature zones, including a clear basking spot for warming up. Temperatures should remain stable and be monitored carefully. Lighting is generally used for 10 to 12 hours a day to create a natural day and night rhythm. UVB lighting is essential for tortoises, as it helps with calcium absorption and supports healthy shell and bone development. Always use a reliable thermostat to regulate heat sources safely.
The enclosure setup should suit a ground-dwelling habitat with sufficient space to move around. Hiding places, sunny spots and opportunities to dig are important. Choose materials that are safe and easy to clean. In addition, suitable bedding is needed that matches the needs of the species. A water dish with fresh drinking water should always be present.
Tortoises shed gradually. A suitable living environment supports this process. Daily removal of droppings, changing the drinking water and keeping the enclosure clean are important for good hygiene. By checking behaviour, appetite and body condition regularly, you can spot changes in time and support your tortoise’s health.
A well-designed terrarium is the foundation for a healthy and active reptile. Reptiles are completely dependent on their environment: temperature, humidity, lighting, diet and layout must closely match their natural habitat. In this blog, we guide you step by step through setting up a terrarium, from the initial choices to the finer details of plants, lighting and climate.
Reptiles have become increasingly popular as pets in recent years. They are fascinating, often relatively calm, and require very different care compared to dogs or cats. Whether you are just starting out or already have experience, there are reptiles that are suitable for both beginners and more advanced keepers. In this blog, we list the top 10 most commonly kept reptiles as pets, with a short explanation for each species.
Reptiles are fascinating animals that have been roaming our planet for millions of years. They belong to the group of cold-blooded vertebrates, have scaly skin, usually lay eggs, and depend on their environment to regulate their body temperature. Reptiles are popular as pets, but they are also incredibly diverse in the wild. In this blog, you will learn which types of reptiles exist and what their main characteristics are.
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