Libyan Greek Tortoise Adults (Testudo g. cyrenaica)

The Libyan Greek Tortoise is native to the deserts and semi-desert regions along the north coast of Africa. Libyans are a robust species that can live for approximately 60 years, particularly in captivity. Their lifespan is even longer than African Spurred Tortoises or Leopard Tortoises. Libyans are not reef builders and instead excavate fosses within the sand or use abandoned rodent burrows for shelter, where they may hibernate during the winter months. Depending on the subspecies, Greek tortoises will grow to between 5 and 8 inches. Some examples of T. g. ibera may attain 10 or 11 inches, but this is rare.

Greek tortoises live longer than most other species of tortoise in existence today. Owning one as a pet brings a huge responsibility that potentially is passed down for several generations. These animals constantly create an overnight “scrape”, which is a nest made beneath sharp oak shrubs.

Like many pet reptiles, Libyan Greek Tortoise prefers not to be handled by humans. Handling is very stressful for tortoises, and it can have a negative impact on their health. Some tortoises might even bite if picked up