This is what your unemployed friend is doing on a Tuesday morning

Taking care of Herman tortoises is such a unique and rewarding experience that really opens your eyes to how resilient yet delicate these creatures are. I remember when I first got my tortoises – I underestimated just how slow and deliberate their movements would be. Watching them navigate even the smallest obstacle can take hours compared to other pets. What’s fascinating about Herman tortoises is how their pace isn’t just a quirk—it reflects their evolutionary adaptation to survive in their natural habitats where moving slowly helps conserve energy and avoid predators. However, in a domestic environment, their slow speed means they rely heavily on their keepers for food, safety, and environmental enrichment. To keep my tortoises healthy and entertained, I’ve learned to be patient and creative. Feeding time is a highlight—I offer a variety of leafy greens and occasional fruits which they nibble on gradually. I also create a small enclosure with logs and plants to mimic their natural environment, encouraging them to explore safely. Watching them slowly move around at their own pace reminds me to slow down in life too. One tip for fellow tortoise caretakers is to ensure their habitat has ample warmth and sunlight because tortoises are cold-blooded and need external heat to regulate their metabolism. I use a UVB light and monitor their temperature daily to make sure they thrive. So if you ever see a video sped up twice showing a couple of Herman tortoises just going about their slow business on a Tuesday morning, remember it’s not just cute — it’s a glimpse into the gentle rhythm of their lives and the special bond you form when you care for such wonderfully slow and steady pets.