Feeding a Hermann's tortoise: diet, supplements, food refusals
Hermann's tortoise : Strictly herbivorous: wild plants (dandelion, plantain, clover), endive and edible flowers, with cuttlebone available for calcium. Fruit only very occasionally, never kibble or animal products.
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In short: 18 to 25 cm as an adult, commonly over 50 years of lifespan, intermediate level due to legal obligations and hibernation. A hardy, endearing land tortoise, it calmly patrols its territory but remains a display animal that dislikes handling. The terrarium dimensions above are only for a stopgap tortoise table: the real standard is a secure OUTDOOR enclosure of at least 10 m² with a frost-free hibernation area.
The Hermann's tortoise diet, precisely
Strictly herbivorous: wild plants (dandelion, plantain, clover), endive and edible flowers, cuttlebone for calcium; fruit only very occasionally, never kibble or animal products. Temperature governs digestion: a Hermann's tortoise kept below its 32-35°C basking spot digests poorly and eventually refuses food — faced with a refusing animal, check the thermometer before the menu.
Supplements and meal rhythm
Varied wild greens (dandelion, plantain, clover) beat any pellet: aim for a high calcium-to-phosphorus ratio and ban sugary fruit, lettuce and dog or cat food. A cuttlebone on hand tops up the calcium.
Water and hydration
A stable water dish changed daily, big enough for a soak if the animal wants one — many drink little but bathe before shedding. Dehydration shows in skin folds and sunken eyes: that means the exotics vet, not the mister alone. The full profile is on the full Hermann's tortoise profile.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Hermann's tortoise eat?
Strictly herbivorous: wild plants (dandelion, plantain, clover), endive and edible flowers, cuttlebone for calcium; fruit only very occasionally, never kibble or animal products.
Why is my Hermann's tortoise refusing food?
Check temperatures first (basking spot at 32-35°C): too cold means no digestion. Then shedding and settling-in stress — but measured weight loss calls for the exotics vet.
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