Marginated Tortoise (testudo marginata)
RESTRICTED STATE: HI
Size: These tortoises can reach about 12-14 inches.
Enclosure: Best kept outdoors in an enclosure that they cannot escape from. As hatchlings, they should be kept in a 2x3 enclosure with a top to secure from predators. Increase in size as they grow. ***Bigger is always better***
Diet: Always want to eat and rarely turn down a meal. The best stable diet is grass and leaves. As hatchlings they eat fresh greens such as romaine lettuce, dandelion, collard greens, kale, turnip greens, and any of the darker lettuce types. Mazuri tortoise diet is offered occasionally as well to help supplement any nutrition they are lacking.
Water: With outdoor enclosures, small water dishes should be placed. As hatchlings, they should be soaked in a shallow bowl of water, twice a week for 15 to 30 minutes to be fully hydrated.
Handling: Tortoises generally should not be handled with any regularity. They are easily stressed when over handled. These stress issues can lead to decline in activity level and health.