We are researching at the moment into getting a tortoise (possibly not a baby one).  I'm not crazy about the idea of having one in the house as we simply don't have the space.  What I was wondering was is there a breed of tortoise that would be happy to live outdoors without a UV light/or any other type of light / bulb?  He/she would of course have shelter and could make some type of mini greenhouse?  Would this be adequate or do all tortoises need access to a house / lights? 

Thanks!

Three species meet most of your criteria - Testudo hermanni, T.ibera, T.marinara.*

A small greenhouse or polytunnel is necessary in a long period of wet &/or cold weather.

It is essential that temps are raised post hibernation to facilitate feeding, heat mats should not be used.

Regards,

Tom

* ends AT A  (tablet prob ! )