If you are a tortoise lover, or even just thinking of becoming one, you need to read this. In this post, we will discuss everything Hermann’s tortoises require for proper care. From food and water to habitat and temperature, we have you covered.

Whether you just got your first pet tortoise or have been keeping them for years, there are a few things every keeper should know. Keep reading to learn all about how important it can be when caring for these animals correctly!

How to care for Hermann’s tortoise

Tank setup

To prevent climbing out or escaping, a hatchling will be contained in an enclosure at least 6 inches tall if tortoises can climb up on decorations and get their heads above ground level they often do so anyway. Tortoise hatchlings need to be in an environment that is more spacious than what they are used to.

A good rule of thumb for tortoises under six months old, who have just been born and don’t know how tall their shell will grow yet (it can take up to 3-4 years). Also, do well with being moved into smaller quarters so it’s not stressful for them when trying out new places or getting lost among others animals at first glance. 

Smaller is better when it comes to tortoise housing, at least until they are bigger and you have a better idea of their activity level and personality. 

Even when they are full-grown, many tortoises enjoy spending time in smaller, more intimate spaces rather than large open areas. If given the choice, many tortoises will choose to sleep in a cardboard box or hide under a pile of blankets rather than roam around an empty room.

Consequently, it is important to provide your tortoise with plenty of smaller spaces to explore as well as some open areas so that they can choose what suits them best on any given day.

By providing your tortoise with a variety of options, you can create a living space that meets all of their needs and helps to prevent boredom.

Lighting & Temperature

All tortoises require UVB lighting, and Hermann’s tortoises are no exception. This type of light is essential for the synthesis of vitamin D3, which is necessary for the absorption of calcium. Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium in your tortoise’s diet.

If they do not have enough, then it will be impossible for them to properly metabolize what’s been ingested and this can lead to a condition called “metabolic bone disease.” This debilitating and often fatal condition can be easily prevented by ensuring that your tortoise has access to proper levels of UVB light.

Many common household fluorescent bulbs, such as compact fluorescents (CFLs), do not emit enough UVB to be beneficial for tortoises.

Instead, choose a bulb that emits 5% or higher levels of UVB, such as the Zoo Med Reptisun 10.0UVB Compact Fluorescent Bulb.

This bulb should be used in conjunction with a reflector to ensure that your tortoise has access to the full spectrum of UVB light.

In addition to UVB lighting, Hermann’s tortoises also require a basking spot where they can warm up to their optimal body temperature of 85-88 degrees Fahrenheit.

This basking spot can be provided by using a basking bulb, such as the Zoo Med Reptile Basking Spot Lamp, in conjunction with a reflector. To make sure your tortoise has the perfect environment, it’s best to provide them with two separate areas that are heated.

One end of their enclosure should be located near a source or radiator so they can go back and forth as needed from heat exposure during different times in order to maintain an appropriate temperature level. For both day-to-day living conditions as well as when basking on hot surfaces such as rocks outside at night time

The other spot may also benefit from being able to get close enough because this type is not very good about getting up off its fat heels if something feels too cold around here!

Temperature

It is also important to provide your tortoise with a gradient of temperatures within their enclosure to thermoregulate as needed. The cool end of the enclosure should maintain a temperature of 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit. While the hot end should be between 85-88 degrees Fahrenheit.

This can be accomplished by using a combination of basking bulbs. Regular household incandescent bulbs to create the desired temperature gradient.

Habitat

As mentioned above, Hermann’s tortoises require a basking spot that maintains a temperature of 85-88 degrees Fahrenheit.

In addition to this, they also need an area of their enclosure that remains between 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit.

This can be accomplished by using a combination of basking bulbs. Regular household incandescent bulbs create the desired temperature gradient.

In addition to these temperature requirements, Hermann’s tortoises also need a humid hide. This can be created by placing a piece of cardboard or wood over part of their enclosure so that it forms a roof.

The hide should be large enough for your tortoise to turn around and should be kept at a humidity level of 50-60%.

Substrate

Selecting the right substrate for your tortoise’s enclosure is an important part of providing them with a safe and healthy environment.

There are a variety of substrates available. It is important to avoid anything that could be ingested, such as sand or small rocks.

Instead, choose a substrate that is specifically designed for reptiles, such as Zoo Med Repti Bark. This type of substrate is not only safe for your tortoise to ingest. It also helps to maintain proper humidity levels and provides a naturalistic look to their enclosure.

By taking the time to choose the right substrate, you can help ensure that your tortoise has everything they need to thrive.

Water

All tortoises require access to fresh water, and Hermann’s tortoises are no exception. Their water dish should be large enough for them to soak in if they choose and should be kept clean at all times. It is also important to ensure that the water dish is shallow enough that your tortoise cannot drown.

In addition to their water dish, Hermann’s tortoises also require a humid hide. This can be created by placing a piece of cardboard or wood over part of their enclosure so that it forms a roof.

The hide should be large enough for your tortoise to turn around and should be kept at a humidity level of 50-60%.

Food

Hermann’s tortoises are herbivores, so their diet should consist mainly of vegetables and greens. Though not the most popular vegetable, some of these greens can be very beneficial to your tortoise. Try kale and collard greens in particular as they are high in calcium which will help keep their Shell strong.

These greens can be supplemented with a variety of other vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, and green beans. Foods rich in oxalates, such as spinach or rhubarb, should be avoided by your tortoise. These can cause health issues for them.

In addition to vegetables, Hermann’s tortoises also require a calcium supplement to ensure that they are getting the nutrients they need. This supplement can be added to their food or provided in the form of a cuttlebone or mineral block.

Supplements

As mentioned above, Hermann’s tortoises require a calcium supplement to ensure that they are getting the nutrients they need. This supplement can be added to their food or provided in the form of a cuttlebone or mineral block.

Cuttlebones and mineral blocks are readily available at pet stores and provide your tortoise with a source of calcium and other essential minerals. These products can be placed in their enclosure for them to nibble on as needed.

It is important for tortoises to have enough calcium and vitamin D3 in their diets or they can develop health problems such as metabolic bone disease. The best way to provide your tortoise with a vitamin D3 supplement is to use a UVB light.

UVB lights are special types of bulbs that emit ultraviolet radiation. This type of radiation is essential for many reptiles, as it helps them to produce vitamin D3. A UVB light should be placed over part of your tortoise’s enclosure so that they can bask in its rays as needed.

Common Health Problems

Hermann’s tortoises are generally hardy creatures, but there are a few health problems that they are susceptible to. Health problems are not uncommon in tortoises.

One of the most common ones seen is a metabolic bone disease, which causes their shells to become soft and fragile with cracks appearing on them; respiratory infections can also be an issue for these turtles.

Shell rot has been reported rarely but should always receive prompt attention when mentioned so that any infections don’t spread further within its shell.

Metabolic bone disease

Metabolic bone disease is a serious condition that can occur in reptiles and other animals that lack adequate full-spectrum lighting or direct sunlight. Calcium deficiency is the most common mineral disorder in reptiles. This can lead to a variety of problems, such as weakness and even death.

The metabolic bone disease occurs when there’s not enough calcium available for your pet lizard or tortoise – luckily it has an easy solution with some supplements from vets who specialize in exotics animals like the ones found at any store near you. Liquid calcium treatments are safe and effective, and they can help to prevent metabolic bone disease.

Respiratory infections

Respiratory infections are common in reptiles, and Hermann’s tortoises are no exception. If your tortoise has a respiratory infection, it’s critical that you take them to the vet as soon as possible. Symptoms include wheezing and lethargy so they won’t be able to thrive in their enclosure if left untreated for too long.

Shell rot

Shell rot is a condition that can affect Hermann’s tortoises. The bacteria or fungi responsible for causing the infection enters through their shell and cause serious health problems if left untreated, so it’s important to keep them clean.

Shell rot usually starts as a small lesion on the shell, and it can quickly spread to the underlying tissues. If you notice any lesions on your tortoise’s shell, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible. 

Preventing Health Problems

Hermann’s tortoises are a popular pet choice for many reptile lovers. However, like all pets, Hermann’s tortoises require proper care in order to stay healthy. A healthy diet is essential, and they should have access to full-spectrum lighting or direct sunlight in order to absorb the necessary vitamins and minerals.

Additionally, their enclosure should be clean and spacious, as a dirty or cramped environment can lead to health problems. By taking the time to provide your tortoise with the things they need, you can help to prevent problems down the road.

Conclusion

By taking the time to provide your Hermann’s tortoise with the proper care, you can help them to thrive. By following the tips above, you can create a safe and healthy environment for your tortoise to enjoy.

FAQs

How to handle Hermann’s tortoise?

Hermann’s tortoises can be handled, but it is important to do so carefully. These tortoises are not fond of being held and they may try to squirm away.

When handling your tortoise, be sure to support their body so that they cannot fall and hurt itself. It is also important to wash your hands after handling your tortoise, as they can carry bacteria that can cause illness in humans.

How long does Hermann’s tortoise live?

The life span of a tortoise is dependent on the type, but they can live up to 20-40 years with proper care.

Do Hermann’s tortoises need UVB lighting?

Yes, Hermann’s tortoises need UVB lighting in order to produce vitamin D3. Without this vitamin, they are at risk for metabolic bone disease. UVB lighting can be provided with either full-spectrum lighting or direct sunlight.

Do Hermann’s Tortoises bite?

Tortoises are typically very docile animals, but they can nip if threatened. If you are handling your tortoise and they nip you, it is important to wash the wound immediately as they can carry bacteria that can cause illness in humans.

Can more than one Hermann’s tortoise coexist?

Yes, more than one Hermann tortoise can coexist peacefully. These tortoises are social creatures and they enjoy being around other tortoises. It is important to provide each tortoise with enough space, though, as they may become territorial if their enclosure is too small.

How often should I feed my Hermann’s tortoise?

Hermann’s tortoises should be fed every day. Feeding your tortoise is an important part of caring for it. To make sure they are getting enough food, offer them treats that are the size or smaller than their head – this will ensure less waste and better digestion!

What is the maximum size of a Hermann’s Tortoise?

Hermann’s tortoises are a unique breed, growing to be 8-10 inches long. Females tend to have larger shells than males do and can weigh as much as two pounds.