How can you tell the differance in sexes between herman tortoises?

Question

I already know that you can tell the differance in the tortoises tail but my tortoises are to young to tell. I think i've got two girls and one boy but I'm not complety sure. Can someone please tell me if there's any other way of telling. Also can someone please tell me if there's any way of telling if a tortoise get's sick? I worry to much
Thanks Best wishes Karah

Answer 1

You cannot sex a Hermann's until it nears reproductive age, about 4 years old. A good way in the Hermann's is the belly shell (plastron). A male's plastron will be noticeably in-curved to allow it to fit during mating.

Sick tortoises will act lethargically, sneeze, have runny noses and watery eyes, not struggle when picked up, not eat with enthusiasm, and generally act ill.

A great site for Hermann's is http://www.tortoisetrust.com.uk

Answer 2

It is generally very difficult to sex a Herman's tortoise until they are around 5 to 7 years old or even older.

However, I sex my babies with DNA Testing. Contact your vet and ask if they will do a full DNA Sexing Test. If they don't do it they will be able to point you in the right direction.

I know of people who have given me torts and said "Have had these for 20 years, they do not want to breed"!

The best way is DNA testing. Looking forward to being your best answer. Good Luck! Sean x

Answer 3

turn them over and look at the scoots (scales) directly in front of the tail. thier are two different angels of those scoots for males and females, females are wider, so they can eventually pass eggs, and males are narrower.

when they get sick theier nose bubbles they loose weight and get lethargic, you cant be to cautious with them hermanns tortoises are notably delicate and prone to respiratory issues

Answer 4

A male in warm water for a period of time will get an erection. You can try this just don't put it in hot water.

Answer 5

males have a curved shell underneath and females dont