Athena
The Greek Tortoise or Spur-Thigh Tortoise is small with most reaching only about 8" (20 cm), though there are occasional specimens reaching up to 12" (30 cm). Their coloration of the is not overly bright, but it is variable and attractive. A primary characteristic, as indicated by the name, are the 'spurs' found on their thighs; two small tubercles, one to each side of the tail.
Greek Tortoises are found in southern Spain, Eastern Europe, Northern Africa, and parts of Asia especially the Middle East. They are found in a variety of environments from seashore dunes to rocky mountain steppes but usually in very hot, dry and arid regions with high summer temperatures. They inhabit areas of sparse vegetation where they browse on grass and plant growth.
Temperature
Greek Tortoises or Spur-Thigh Tortoises require warm, dry environments and so if you live in a humid area be very careful about keeping them outdoors. Living on the damp ground will cause them serious medical problems.
Heat should be provided using a heat-emitting bulb in a lamp from overhead. Ideally, this heat lamp should hang just about 12" above the substrate. The heat-emitting bulb should provide a basking spot of 90 º to 95 º F (32 º to 35 º C) at one end of the enclosure. This will provide a hot end for the tortoise to enjoy.
For lighting, place a shop light fixture overhead that is fitted with one or two UV-emitting bulbs.
Housing
An individual will need an enclosure that is at least 4' by 2', while a pair of adults will require at least 4' by 6'. Greek Tortoises are shy and so be sure to provide a variety of shelters to give the them a feeling of security. Add large pieces of curved cork bark, large banana leaves, piles of straw or hay, etc. for the tortoises to use as shelter. The shelter should be located at the cooler end of the enclosure and not directly under the heat-emitting lamps.
For lighting, place a shop light fixture overhead that is fitted with one or two UV-emitting bulbs.
Bedding
The substrate can be a mixture of ¾ sand and ¼ peat moss. A layer of grass hay can be added at one end to provide some shelter. The substrate should be kept dry as these tortoises are very sensitive to damp conditions.
Food
A Greek Tortoises or Spur-Thigh Tortoises should be fed a diet that is very high in fiber, low in protein, and calcium rich diet. They will feed eagerly on a mixed salad of greens and vegetables each day, but you should try to offer as much grass, hay, dandelions, leaves, naturally occurring non-toxic weeds, and Opuntia (spineless) prickly pear cactus pads as possible. A sprinkle of a mineral-vitamin supplement and a quality calcium supplement should be offered on the salad every few times.
Cleaning and Handling
Daily cleaning of the yard or enclosure is required to keep it sanitary.
