Greek Tortoise Testudo graeca Class Reptilia Order Chelonia Distribution North Africa, Southwestern Asia and Southern Europe Habitat Dry open steppes and barren hillsides from sea level to over 3000 m Conservation Status Status Listed under Appendix II of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Behaviour Greek Tortoise has a dull yellow and moderately domed carapace which can reach 300 mm. The head is moderate in size with a non-protruding snout and weakly hooked upper jaw. The male has a longer and thicker tail than the female. Courtship takes place in spring. During copulation, the male gapes widely and emits a muffled whistling cry. Two to seven eggs per clutch are normally laid in May and June and hatched in September and October. This species is one of the most popular turtles in the European pet trade. Fortunately, new regulations have greatly slowed the trade. Diet Essentially vegetarian, mainly feed on grasses, sedges, clover, trefoil, etc. 2003| Important notices Last revision date: 14 September, 2004