Greek spur-thighed tortoise

This is a captive-bred specimen. They are a common mediterranean species, but there are no tortoises endemic to Cyprus. Possibly due to extreme summer heat and unstable weather conditions in winter with higher than ideal temperatures during the day and 10 degree drops at nighttime. This weather does not facilitate safe hibernation and is very taxing to a tortoise's system. There is also a lack of edible vegetation during the crucial months. This one is kept as a pet in the garden. She will hibernate from late November through to April/May. In very unstable conditions she must be kept indoors or refrigirated to ensure safe temperature for hibernation.