Tortoise Species · North Africa, southern Europe & the Middle East

Greek Tortoise

The 'spur-thighed' tortoise — a Vulnerable Mediterranean species with spurs on the thighs.

By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated June 2026

Small–medium50–100+ yearsGentle

Greek Tortoise tortoise — The 'spur-thighed' tortoise — a Vulnerable Mediterranean species with spurs on the thighs.

In brief

The Greek or spur-thighed tortoise (Testudo graeca) is a Mediterranean species named for the conical spurs on each thigh. A hardy, long-lived hibernator, it is listed Vulnerable by the IUCN and is CITES Appendix II.

Greek Tortoise: At a Glance

Key facts about the Greek Tortoise tortoise species
Origin	North Africa, southern Europe & the Middle East
Size	Small–medium (15–25 cm)
Adult size	Adult 15–25 cm; subspecies vary widely
Lifespan	50–100+ years
Shell & appearance	High-domed shell with a thigh spur on each side; hibernating species
Temperament	Gentle, hardy, long-lived
Conservation & suitability	Vulnerable (IUCN); CITES II — captive-bred only; a multi-decade commitment with warm, dry housing and careful hibernation

History & Origins

Testudo graeca ranges across North Africa, southern Europe and the Middle East in many subspecies, varying widely in size and colour. Wild populations are Vulnerable from habitat loss and collection. It needs a warm, dry set-up and species-appropriate hibernation, and captive-bred animals should be chosen.

Greek Tortoise Fun Facts

The 'spur-thighed' name comes from the conical spurs on each thigh.
Testudo graeca includes many subspecies of varying size and colour.
It is listed Vulnerable by the IUCN.
Like other Mediterranean tortoises, it hibernates.

Greek Tortoise Common Health Issues

Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.

Metabolic bone disease

Calcium and vitamin D3 deficiency or inadequate UVB lighting softens and deforms the shell and bones.

Care: Provide correct UVB lighting, a calcium-rich plant diet and vet-guided supplementation.

Runny nose syndrome

A chronic upper-respiratory infection in tortoises causing nasal discharge, bubbling and laboured breathing, often linked to incorrect temperature or humidity.

Care: Correct the temperature gradient and humidity and see a reptile vet; isolate affected tortoises.

Hibernation problems

Hibernating an underweight or unwell tortoise, or at the wrong temperature, can cause blindness, frostbite or death.

Care: Only hibernate healthy tortoises at controlled temperatures and follow species-specific veterinary guidance.

A tortoise is a lifetime commitment

Tortoises live 50–100 years and routinely outlive their owners. Many species are still trafficked from the wild, so choose captive-bred animals, provide species-appropriate housing and plan for decades of care.

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Greek Tortoise FAQs

What is a Greek Tortoise?

Is the Greek Tortoise a good pet?

The Greek Tortoise can be a rewarding pet for a prepared keeper, but it is a decades-long commitment. Check its adult size and climate needs in the facts above, provide species-appropriate housing and diet, and always choose a captive-bred animal over a wild-caught one.

Does the Greek Tortoise hibernate?

Mediterranean species such as Hermann's, Russian, Greek and Marginated tortoises hibernate and need a controlled cool winter rest, while warm-climate species such as the Sulcata, Leopard, Red-footed and Indian star do not. Hibernating an unwell or tropical tortoise is dangerous — follow species-specific veterinary advice.