The Eastern Hermann's tortoise (Testudo hermanni boettgeri) is a hardy species from southern Europe that averages between 5 and 10 inches. They require UV lighting, low humidity and medium temperatures. Their small size makes them easy to house indoors, although they require adequate space to roam and small obstacles to climb over. We've tried a variety of substrates but find coconut husk chips are the most practical, being easy to spot clean and harmless if ingested. We soak ours twice weekly, allowing them to stay hydrated and pass urates, which should be creamy and watery. They enjoy a variety of leafy greens, flowers and occasionally fruit.
Females can be housed together as they're not aggressive unless gravid, at which time they can become territorial. Males are very aggressive and should not be housed together. They should also be separated from females unless it's mating season.
