Greek Tortoise

Also known as the Spur-Thighed Tortoise

Characteristics:

The Greek Tortoise has both a Carapace (upper shell) and a Plastron (Lower shell). The upper shell varies from being yellow and tan with dark brown blotches, to be totally black or grey. Its lower shell can be yellow to greenish yellow, brown to dark brown and gray. On its lower shell there can sometimes be black markings. It;s neck, limbs and tail are all yellowish brown or grey, while its head head can be yellow,brown,grey or black with or without dark spotting. It also had large overlapping scales that cover each one of the forelimbs, Lastly, it has five claws on each foot,

Biology;

For the Greek Tortoise mating seasons can differ depending on where they live. Every season a female tortoise may have one clutch which can contain 1-7 eggs. The Greek Tortoise are herbivores.

Range and Habitat:

While being native to southern Spain, they can also be found in Northern Africa, Eastern Europe and the Middle East. They occupy semi-arid scrub grasslands and brush areas in the Atlas Mountains. They can also be found in coastal dunes, marshland borders,rocky bushy hillsides and pine woods.

Status and Threats:

Greek Tortoises are classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN red list. Thy are threatened mostly by illegal harvesting for the pet trade, but also by habitat loss and degradation form over grazing by livestock.

Information from http://www.arkive.org/greek-tortoise/testudo-graeca/

Photo Credit: Kim Taylor @ naturepl.com and http://www.arkive.org/greek-tortoise/testudo-graeca/