Description

Hermanntoise Care Guide Tor

Hermann Tortoises are one of the most popular pet tortoise species thanks to their compact size, gentle temperament, and hardy nature. They are relatively easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced keepers. They thrive in either a tortoise table or a well-ventilated vivarium and can safely enjoy supervised time outdoors during warm, sunny weather.

Temperature & Heating

As cold-blooded reptiles, Hermann Tortoises depend on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature and remain active.

For optimal health, provide:

• Basking Area: 85°F–90°F (29°C–32°C)
• Daytime Ambient Temperature: 70°F–80°F (21°C–27°C)
• Nighttime Temperature: 65°F–70°F (18°C–21°C)

Since Hermann Tortoises naturally inhabit warm, dry regions of Southern Europe, they also require an environment with consistently low humidity.

UV Lighting Requirements

Proper UV lighting is essential for maintaining your tortoise’s overall health. Hermann Tortoises should receive 12 hours of UVA and UVB lighting each day. These rays encourage natural behaviors, stimulate appetite and activity, and enable the production of Vitamin D3, which is necessary for calcium absorption, healthy shell development, and strong bones.

Recommended lighting setups include:

• Vivarium: Arcadia T5 Pro UVB tube with reflector, paired with a separate infrared heat lamp.
• Open Tortoise Table: Arcadia Mercury Vapour bulb, which combines heat, UVA, and UVB in one fixture, used with a compatible dome holder.

Nighttime heating is also important. A quality heat mat helps maintain appropriate temperatures after the lights turn off.

Diet & Nutrition

Hermann Tortoises are herbivores and require a varied, nutrient-rich diet to stay healthy. Their meals should consist primarily of leafy greens, edible weeds, vegetables, and suitable plants, supplemented with high-quality tortoise pellets such as Komodo Complete Pellet Food.

Fresh food should be offered every day to ensure a balanced diet.

To support healthy growth and shell development, dust food daily with a calcium and multivitamin supplement, such as Reptavite or Calcium Powder.

Hydration

Although Hermann Tortoises do not drink large amounts of water, proper hydration remains essential.

Provide fresh, clean drinking water every day and soak your tortoise in a shallow dish of warm water at least once a week. Regular soaking helps maintain hydration, supports healthy digestion, and assists with the elimination of waste and uric acid.

Substrate

A clean, dry substrate is important for your tortoise’s comfort and health. Hemp bedding is widely recommended because it is highly absorbent, virtually dust-free, and easy to maintain.

Spot-clean waste daily and completely replace the bedding approximately every three weeks, or sooner if needed.

Hibernation

Healthy adult Hermann Tortoises can safely hibernate under suitable conditions. However, hibernation is not recommended during the first three years of life or for tortoises that have not reached an appropriate size or weight.

If you plan to hibernate your tortoise, seek expert guidance and ensure your pet is healthy enough before beginning the process.

Species Information

• Origin: Southern Europe
• Natural Habitat: Temperate, dry environments
• Daytime Temperature: 78°F ambient with a basking area of 85°F–95°F
• Night Temperature: 65°F
• UV Requirement: High
• Humidity: Low
• Adult Size: Approximately 18–20 cm
• Diet: Herbivorous

Choosing the Right Enclosure

Hermann Tortoises can be housed comfortably in either a tortoise table or a vivarium. Both 3-foot and 4-foot models provide suitable living space, depending on your available room and future plans.

What’s Included in the Starter Kit?

Each starter kit comes with everything needed to create a safe and comfortable home for your tortoise, including:

• Tortoise Table or Vivarium (flat-packed)
• UV Lighting System
• Heat Lamp
• Heat Mat
• Thermometer
• Bedding/Substrate
• Calcium and Vitamin Supplements
• Food Dish
• Water Dish
• Premium Pellet Food
• Wooden Hide (included with vivarium kits; tortoise tables feature a built-in shelter)

Enclosure Dimensions

3ft Tortoise Table

• Width: 900 mm
• Depth: 509 mm
• Height: 215 mm
• Available Colours: Oak, Black, or Grey
• Optional matching cabinet available separately.

3ft Vivarium

• Width: 872 mm
• Depth: 375 mm
• Height: 421 mm
• Available Colours: Oak, Black, or Grey

4ft Tortoise Table

• Width: 115 cm
• Height: 27.5 cm
• Depth: 61 cm
• Available in Oak
• Optional cabinet sold separately.

4ft Vivarium

• Width: 1150 mm
• Depth: 375 mm
• Height: 421 mm
• Available Colours: Oak, Black, or Grey

Ongoing Support

Every enclosure purchase includes a comprehensive care guide and setup instructions to help you get started with confidence. Whether you shop online or visit our store, our team is always available to provide expert advice and ongoing support whenever you need assistance with your Hermann Tortoise.