We have all read about Timothy - the Mediterranean Spur Thighed Tortoise who lived for about 160 years. However, Timothy does'nt seem to be an exception. Many sources claim that Mediterranean Spur Thighed Tortoise or Greek Tortoise can easily live for over 100 years.
A very interesting compilation of tortoise lifespans is available here - http://pondturtle.com/lturtle.html
In the above compilation, surprisingly, there are two examples of Spur Thighed Tortoises given which lived 127 years and 96 years respectively. These examples are in addition to the famous example of Timothy. While comparing it to the examples of the giant tortoises in the same compilation, the longest living Galapagos (still living) is 69 years while that of an Aldabra is 63 years. Ofcourse, the famous examples of Harriet (Galapagos) and Adwaita & Esmeralda (Aldabra) do not find a mention in this compilation.
In conclusion, can it be said that Spur Thighed Tortoises (Testudo graeca) have an average lifespan of above 100 years rivaling that of the Giant Tortoises eventhough they are significantly smaller in size? I will be thankful if Spur Thighed tortoise owners in this forum can kindly share their personal experiences with their tortoises and their respective lifespans to throw some light on the matter.
Thank you.
A very interesting compilation of tortoise lifespans is available here - http://pondturtle.com/lturtle.html
In the above compilation, surprisingly, there are two examples of Spur Thighed Tortoises given which lived 127 years and 96 years respectively. These examples are in addition to the famous example of Timothy. While comparing it to the examples of the giant tortoises in the same compilation, the longest living Galapagos (still living) is 69 years while that of an Aldabra is 63 years. Ofcourse, the famous examples of Harriet (Galapagos) and Adwaita & Esmeralda (Aldabra) do not find a mention in this compilation.
In conclusion, can it be said that Spur Thighed Tortoises (Testudo graeca) have an average lifespan of above 100 years rivaling that of the Giant Tortoises eventhough they are significantly smaller in size? I will be thankful if Spur Thighed tortoise owners in this forum can kindly share their personal experiences with their tortoises and their respective lifespans to throw some light on the matter.
Thank you.
