Basking

Can Greek Tortoises eat Alfalfa?

Testudo graeca · Medicago sativa

Caution

Weekly

USDA database

Greek Tortoises are Mediterranean low-protein herbivores; Tortoise Trust identifies legumes and high-protein foods as high-risk for this species group, and T. graeca is specifically noted as vulnerable. The poor Ca:P ratio and elevated protein content warrant caution despite no direct toxic mechanism.

Feeding frequency

DailyWeeklyOccasionalNever
Caution

Weekly

HerbivoreVegetableLow oxalateNot toxic

The short answer

Greek Tortoises are Mediterranean low-protein herbivores; Tortoise Trust identifies legumes and high-protein foods as high-risk for this species group, and T. graeca is specifically noted as vulnerable. The poor Ca:P ratio and elevated protein content warrant caution despite no direct toxic mechanism.

Feeding it safely

How much / how often

Weekly

What's inside

Per 100 g of raw alfalfa

32mg

Calcium

70mg

Phosphorus

0.5:1

Ca:P ratio

INVERTED

Low

Oxalate

3.99g

Protein

1.9g

Fiber

Backed by sources

Reviewed by basking_research · June 2026

Basking is here to help you learn — it isn't veterinary advice. For anything specific to your animal, talk to a qualified exotic-animal vet.

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