Can Hermann's Tortoises eat Lamb's Quarters?
Chenopodium album
Safety verdict
Caution
Why
[confidence: high] [source: The Tortoise Table plant database (theTortoisetable.org.uk) and an exotic reptile vet or herpetological nutrition review specializing in Testudo hermanni dietary oxalate risks.] Lamb's Quarters (Chenopodium album) contains moderate-to-high levels of oxalic acid and calcium oxalates, which can bind dietary calcium and impair absorption, posing a risk of metabolic bone disease or renal issues in Hermann's tortoises if fed frequently. It also contains soluble oxalates that may accumulate with repeated feeding.
How much / how often
Offer only occasionally as a very small portion of a varied salad — no more than once every 2–3 weeks and in small quantities relative to low-oxalate greens.
Preparation
Offer fresh and raw; do not concentrate or wilt, as wilting may increase oxalate bioavailability. Always pair with high-calcium, low-oxalate staple greens to offset binding effects.
Nutrition (per 100 g)
309 mg
Calcium
72 mg
Phosphorus
4.3:1
Ca:P ratio
high
Oxalate
4.2 g
Protein
1.8 g
Fiber
Reviewed by admin on May 2026