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Tortoise Enquiry

22 16:14:35

Question
Hi, I recently purchased a tortoise which I was told was a Herman Tortoise but when I looked at its licience it stated that it was a Tesduo marginata tortoise.  Is this the same or has the shop which I purchased it at told me wrong.

Your advise on this would be much appreciated.

Joy McDowell

Answer
Hermann's are Testudo hermanni. T. marginata are Marginated Tortoises- a similar species with similar cares. Marginateds are identified by the rear part of the shell, which flairs out over the back half.

http://www.tortoisetrust.org has good care info on both. If you paid for a Hermanns and got a Marginated, you got a pretty good deal!

Http://www.tortoiseforum.org is a place you can chat with other keepers on either species.

Good luck!