EXPERIENCE ROXY'S PET SHOP CARE SHEETS

 Spur-Thighed Tortoise Care Sheet | Roxy’s Pet Shop

Scientific Name: Testudo graeca
Lifespan: 50+ years with proper care
Adult Size: 15–20 cm (6–8 inches), some may grow larger
Temperament: Generally calm and friendly, but can be shy at first

Enclosure Type: Outdoor pen in warmer months; indoor tortoise table or secure vivarium when indoors.
Minimum Size: 120x60 cm (4x2 ft) for one adult; bigger is always better.
Substrate: Topsoil mixed with sand or coconut coir; depth of 5–10 cm for digging.
Décor: Hides, flat rocks, and safe plants for shade and enrichment.

Temperature:

• Basking spot: 32–35°C (90–95°F)
   
• Cool end: 20–25°C (68–77°F)
   

Heating: Use a heat lamp or ceramic heat emitter controlled by a thermostat.
Lighting: Full-spectrum UVB lighting is essential (10–12 hrs per day) to support healthy shell and bone development.

Humidity: Moderate, around 40–60%. Juveniles benefit from slightly higher humidity.
Water: Provide a shallow, sturdy dish for drinking and soaking. Refresh daily.
Bathing: Soak juveniles 3–4 times per week, adults once weekly.

Diet: High-fibre, low-protein diet of leafy greens, weeds, and flowers (e.g., dandelion, plantain, clover). Avoid fruit and high-protein foods.
Supplements: Calcium powder 2–3 times a week; multivitamin once weekly.
Feeding Frequency: Daily access to fresh greens.

Gentle and occasional handling only. Spur-Thighed Tortoises can become stressed if over-handled. Always wash hands before and after handling.

Spot Clean: Remove old food and waste daily.
Full Clean: Every 4–6 weeks; replace substrate and disinfect enclosure.

✔️ Tortoise Table or Secure Outdoor Pen
✔️ Topsoil / Sand / Coconut Coir Substrate
✔️ UVB Lighting & Heat Lamp with Thermostat
✔️ Digital Thermometer & Hygrometer
✔️ Shallow Water Dish
✔️ Hides & Flat Rocks for Basking
✔️ Calcium & Vitamin Supplements
✔️ Fresh Greens, Weeds & Safe Plants
✔️ Reptile-Safe Disinfectant