Golden Greek tortoises

Golden Greek tortoises (Testudo graeca ssp.) are a fairly recent addition to herpetoculture. Before they entered the U.S. reptile market in significant numbers, the typical Greek tortoise available from importers was heavily patterned, and it often had a dark shell and skin. These varied considerably in size, 4 to 8 inches in straight line plastron length, and to a lesser degree in shell shape depending on the country of origin. But to the average tortoisekeeper, the various Middle Eastern races of Greek tortoises were otherwise all rather similar looking.

Our golden Greeks come from European breed stock and exemplify the species standard in both color, and temperament.  Golden Greeks are members of the Testudo family, like Hermanns’, Russians, other Greeks, Marginated and some other popular European species.  They reach sizes of 7-11″ on average with most falling in the 9-10″ range.  Golden Greek tortoises are mediocre in terms of care level, and make great additions to any tortoise collection.