Herman Tortoise
The Herman Tortoise - A Small Friendly Creature
The Herman tortoise, Testudo hermanni, is a species belonging to the Testudo family, a Mediterranean family of tortoises. The Herman tortoise also is referred to as the Hermann tortoise and Hermann's tortoise, and is often called the Mediterranean tortoise as well. There are to subspecies of Herman tortoise, the more common eastern Herman tortoise, Testudo hermanni boettgeri, and the western Herman tortoise, Testudo hermanni hermanni. The eastern subspecies is the larger of the two, but both are relatively small, usually attaining a size of between 6 and 8 inches. This tortoise is native to the Mediterranean area and the Balkan countries.
Room To Roam - Being somewhat small, the Herman tortoise is an easier keeper than a larger species would be. Still, as it is a very active tortoise, it's good to give it plenty of room to roam, with a 4' by 6' area, indoors or out being a good size for one or two tortoises. If kept out of doors, it’s important to remember that the Herman tortoise is a very good climber and excellent at digging as well, so it tends to be somewhat prone to escaping. Two or more of the species can be kept in the same enclosure, as long as there is ample room of course. Two males are likely to fight however, and even a male and female don't always make a good match. A male in with 2 or 3 females usually seems to work a bit better. If you only have one Herman tortoise though, don't worry excessively about your pet having a need for companionship. The Herman tortoise usually gets along quite well as a loner.
Veggies, Fruit, And Calcium - While the Herman tortoise is omnivorous, it is for the most part a vegetarian. Leafy greens, members of the cabbage family, and carrots should make up the bulk of its diet. Apples, melons, strawberries and other fruits are fine, but should be given in smaller amounts. Because turtles and tortoises need plenty of calcium to ensure a well developed and healthy shell, calcium supplements are often added to the tortoise's food. Meat is really not necessary, unless the tortoise happens upon an insect or a slug, which it will happily devour. Too much protein is not good for the species and cat or dog food should not be a part of its diet.
An outdoor enclosure for the Herman tortoise is only suitable in warmer climates, such as southern California. In cooler climates the tortoise may sicken and die if kept out of doors. When kept indoors, it is best to have a warm spot, provided by a heat lamp or basking light in one part of its enclosure, with other parts being a bit cooler. A spot where they can sleep, hide, or have some privacy is also recommended. During the day, a typical Herman tortoise may run, dig, climb, sleep, bathe, and bask. When outdoors or allowed to roam free, the tortoise can become quite tame and sociable, to the point of following its owner around from one place to another. These little creatures are even known to nip to get attention, but are not considered to be aggressive or ill-tempered.
Outdoors Is Best - It is really best when the Herman tortoise can be kept out of doors as much as possible. When confined indoors or long periods of time, even if their enclosure is illuminated by broad spectrum lighting, these animals can over a period of time become sickly. If you would like a Herman tortoise as a pet, it would be best to ensure that you can provide an environment conducive to its health and well-being.