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Turtle: species overview

The Greek tortoise (Testudo graeca) is a medium-sized land turtle, widely distributed around the Mediterranean basin and in the Maghreb. It is recognizable by its rounded yellow to brown shell spotted with black and the horny spurs on its thighs. An emblematic species of Tunisia, it frequents dry environments, scrub and coastal areas. Long collected from the wild for the pet trade, it now benefits from protected status. Its exceptional longevity and slow pace of life make it a popular but demanding animal in captivity.

The carapace, rounded and robust, generally measures between 15 and 25 cm in length as an adult. Its coloring varies from straw yellow to olive brown, with irregular black spots on each scale. It has a distinctive horny spur on each side of the tail, a feature that differentiates it from other Testudo species. The legs are short and sturdy, suitable for walking on dry and rocky ground.