Hermann tortoises are small-to-medium sized tortoises, known for their friendly nature and suitability as long-term pets. If you’re thinking of getting one or already own a hatchling, you may wonder: how big do Hermann tortoises grow?
Here’s a clear and simple guide to their size, growth stages, and what affects how big they get.
Adult Size of a Hermann Tortoise
On average, fully grown Hermann tortoises reach:
- Males: 13–16 cm (5–6.5 inches)
- Females: 16–20 cm (6.5–8 inches)
Females are usually larger than males because they need more space inside their shell to carry eggs.
Growth Over Time
| Age | Shell Length (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Hatchling | 4–5 cm (1.5–2 inches) |
| 1 year old | 6–8 cm (2.5–3 inches) |
| 5 years old | 10–13 cm (4–5 inches) |
| Adult (8–10 yrs) | 13–20 cm (5–8 inches) |
They grow slowly and steadily, taking 8 to 10 years to reach full size.
Subspecies Size Differences
There are two main subspecies of Hermann tortoises:
🐢 Eastern Hermann’s (Testudo hermanni boettgeri)
- Larger of the two
- Adults reach up to 20 cm (8 inches)
🐢 Western Hermann’s (Testudo hermanni hermanni)
- Smaller, often with brighter yellow markings
- Adults grow to 13–16 cm (5–6.5 inches)
How Much Do They Weigh?
- Adult weight: 1–2 kg (2.2–4.4 lbs)
- Weight depends on sex, age, diet, and health
Factors That Affect Growth
- Diet: A high-fibre, calcium-rich diet supports healthy shell and bone development.
- UVB Lighting: Essential for vitamin D3 and calcium absorption.
- Habitat Size: Tortoises with plenty of space tend to grow more naturally.
- Hibernation: Slows down growth but follows their natural cycle.
- Subspecies: Determines their potential adult size.
FAQs About Hermann Tortoise Growth
🐢 How long does it take a Hermann tortoise to grow fully?
Around 8–10 years, though growth is slow and steady.
🐢 Do all Hermann tortoises grow to the same size?
No—size varies depending on subspecies, sex, and environment.
🐢 Can a Hermann tortoise outgrow its enclosure?
Yes, if the enclosure is too small. Outdoor pens or large indoor habitats are recommended for adults.
🐢 Do Hermann tortoises grow after reaching adulthood?
Growth slows down significantly but doesn’t stop entirely—they may gain weight with age.
Conclusion
Hermann tortoises grow to about 13–20 cm (5–8 inches) as adults, with females being larger than males. They’re slow growers, reaching full size in about a decade. With proper care, diet, and space, they can live a long, healthy life—sometimes over 50 years!
Their manageable size and friendly personality make them a fantastic lifelong companion.
Also Check:
• How Big Do Hermann Tortoises Get?
• How Big Does a Horsefield Tortoise Get?
• How Big Does a Bearded Dragon Grow?
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