Greek Tortoise
Sturdy, long-lived tortoise, a popular (permit-required) pet in Switzerland for decades.
Origin & history
Native to the dry, sunny regions of Greece, the Balkans, and North Africa; known as a pet for centuries and one of the most commonly kept tortoise species in Switzerland.
Care
Needs a weather-protected outdoor enclosure with hibernation option in a cool cellar. Check shell and claws regularly.
Ideal environment
Needs year-round outdoor housing with a protected enclosure, not just an indoor terrarium. Keeping at least two animals is recommended, but import/keeping must be reported in Switzerland.
Feeding
Strictly herbivorous: diet rich in wild herbs, high in calcium and low in protein - no fruit and no supermarket lettuce.
Health
Prone to shell deformities from poor diet and respiratory infections from drafts. Can live over 100 years, so it's a long-term commitment.