[5] The Greek tortoise's geographic range includes North Africa, Southern Europe, and Southwest Asia.

The oldest known definitive fossil is from the Early Pliocene of Greece,[6] but specimens referred to as Testudo cf.

However, these are also the most sensitive tortoises of the species, so they cannot be kept outdoors in temperate climates, as cold and rainy summers quickly cause the animals to become ill.

Testudo graeca hibernates during cold months, emerging as early as February in hot coastal areas.

The males follow the females with great interest, encircling them, biting them in the limbs, ramming them, and trying to mount them.

During copulation, the male opens his mouth, showing his red tongue and making squeaking sounds.

The purpose of this behavior is to produce respect in the tortoise community so that the female will not be disturbed by the others during egg laying.

[10][11][12] This can lead to an unsustainable removal of wild individuals for the local pet trade and for export.

Also, welfare concerns exist with this trade, as the animals are not properly housed when being sold, causing a high rate of mortality in captivity.

[13] In captivity, the Greek tortoise loves dandelion leaves and other leafy plants.

However, although they also enjoy eating lettuce, it is not recommended to them due to having a lack of nutrients that the tortoises need to survive.