Marginated tortoise
Testudo marginata
This species takes its name from its extremely flared, serrated and projecting rear marginal scutes. The carapace is mainly black/brown with yellow or orange markings which darken with age. The plastron is much lighter, being olive/yellow with large brown or black triangular markings on the larger scutes. The males are longer in shape with more pronounced flaring of the carapace than the females who are broader in girth. Marginata are also one of the largest species of the Testudo genus.
You will require Acrobat Reader to download, the care sheets
Recommended for the UK : YES
A hibernating species that, with the correct care, planning and husbandry can thrive in the UK. Though as with all species of tortoise a good deal of research and forward planning should be undertaken before taking on any tortoise.
If you are considering buying a tortoise, please avoid pet shops, garden centres and tortoise centres and look to purchase your tortoise from a reputable breeder who will supply you with a healthy tortoise and the very best advice on how to give it a long, good quality life. We have a list of genuine verified breeders on our website.
December 2013