Marginated
tortoise.
A striking outline and a flared rear shell. Discover the characteristics of this European tortoise.
Get to know its character.
Start with a brief overview. Open each chapter with the + symbol for more detail.
Size and shell shape
An elongated shell with a distinctive flared rear edge.
How it changes as it grows
The characteristic shape is less pronounced in young tortoises.
Differences between males and females
Their tails and the underside of their shells also differ.
Every detail
has a story.
Size and shell shapeAn elongated shell with a distinctive flared rear edge.
The marginated tortoise is the largest tortoise species native to Europe. Adults can reach about 35 cm in length and weigh up to 5 kg. Its shell is elongated, with a distinctly flared, bell-shaped rear edge. Its raised central section gives it a helmet-like appearance.
How it changes as it growsThe characteristic shape is less pronounced in young tortoises.
Young marginated tortoises look very similar to Hermann’s tortoises, but their shells flare more as they grow. The outer margins can become very broad and serrated, giving this species its common name. Older tortoises have a dark brown-black shell with yellow edges and a lighter underside.
Differences between males and femalesTheir tails and the underside of their shells also differ.
In this species, males are generally larger than females. They also have a longer, thicker tail and a more concave underside of the shell.
Before your tortoise
comes home.
Explore our guidance on housing and feeding. Contact us with questions or for information about current availability.