When does a herman tortoises sex life begin?

Question

My two tortoises are between 2 and a half and three years old.The male,of late has begun to headbutt the female and chase her about,then tries to mounts her.She shows no interest whatsoever.Are they too young for this sort of thing yet.

Answer 1

Are you sure you have a Hermann's tortoise? Hermann tortoises are not known for their violent head ramming, instead, the male have vicious bites to the female's head and legs. The cousin of the Hermann's tortoise, the Greek tortoise (Testudo graeca & Testudo ibera) is known for its head ramming and they look very similar, if not the same to beginners and many sellers who mis-indetify them. Check out the gallery from World Chelonian Trust for comparison photos: http://www.chelonia.org/testudo_gallery.htm

Anyyway, the Hermann and Greek tortoises are very similar in care and set up. There are many sub-species, and generally the smaller forms reach sexual maturity at 3", while the larger western forms reach sexual maturity at 4". It's not really time/age, but size that determines sexual readiness.

I would guess your male, which will reach sexual maturity first, will be physically able in a year or two at the latest. The female may take an extra year or two to reach the right size.

Since the male is demonstrating aggressive behaviour, it is likely stressing the female out. Definitely keep seperately or put in a divider so that canot see each other. Then when they are big enough, bring them together and keep a close eye so that the male does not harass or hurt the female.

Good luck.

Answer 2

Hi, my hermanns do the same. Mine are nearly 3 years old and he does mount the female. But 2 males will also do this, they do it to be the dominant male. With tortoises, its not their age but their size. Here is a good website for you to try which should help you or lead you to other websites, shelled warriors. You can also email the breeders direct to get more useful info.

Answer 3

For tortoises, this is generally regulated by size more than age, but in general, they will usually be about 5 years old.

Young males start to TRY earlier- especially in crowded conditions. This is incredibly stressful to the female, and may result in injuries. She needs room to get away and hide.

Double check your habitat to ensure that it is plenty big enough for both, figuring about 8'x4' for a single adult ideally.

Answer 4

I doubt he is too young. The only reason to have a male and female is to someday have babies. Males of this kind of turtle usually harass the female when they are mating.

Answer 5

If the male is showing interest, then they are old enough to breed

Answer 6

when ever it pops out