Tortoise Species · Greece & the southern Balkans

Marginated Tortoise

The largest European tortoise, with a flared, skirt-like rear of the shell.

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

Medium–large50–100+ yearsHardy

Marginated Tortoise tortoise — The largest European tortoise, with a flared, skirt-like rear of the shell.

In brief

The Marginated tortoise (Testudo marginata) is the largest European tortoise, recognised by the flared, skirt-like rear edge of its dark shell. A hardy Mediterranean hibernator, it is listed Least Concern by the IUCN and is CITES Appendix II.

Marginated Tortoise: At a Glance

Key facts about the Marginated Tortoise tortoise species
Origin	Greece & the southern Balkans
Size	Medium–large (to 35 cm; up to ~5 kg)
Adult size	Adult to 35 cm; up to ~5 kg — the largest European tortoise
Lifespan	50–100+ years
Shell & appearance	Dark shell with a flared, skirt-like rear margin; hibernating species
Temperament	Hardy, calm, long-lived
Conservation & suitability	Least Concern (IUCN); CITES II — captive-bred only; a hardy, long-lived hibernator needing a secure outdoor pen

History & Origins

The Marginated tortoise is native to Greece and the southern Balkans, living on dry, rocky hillsides. The flared rear marginal scutes that give it its name develop with age. It is Least Concern and CITES Appendix II, hibernates like other Testudo species and is a long-lived captive-bred pet.

Marginated Tortoise Fun Facts

It is the largest tortoise native to Europe.
The flared, skirt-like rear of the shell develops with age.
It is listed Least Concern by the IUCN.
Like other Testudo species, it hibernates.

Marginated 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.

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.

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.

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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Marginated Tortoise FAQs

What is a Marginated Tortoise?

Is the Marginated Tortoise a good pet?

The Marginated 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 Marginated 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.