Russian Tortoise

This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.

Small shell, long calendar

Russian tortoises, Testudo horsfieldii, stay about 6 to 8 inches and often live 40 to 50 years, sometimes longer. They are active diggers from dry Central Asian steppe. The beginner label fits a keeper who will build a 4 by 2 foot pen or better, offer weeds, and not keep the animal on wet coconut husk. It does not fit a desktop tank and a strawberry.

Daytime warmth with a basking spot into the 90s, a cooler side, and UVB if they are indoors. Humidity around 40 to 50 percent. They like to dig under the water dish and surprise you. Outdoor time in safe weather is better than a lamp alone, with shade and a lid against predators.

Weeds, hay, and a winter plan

Leafy weeds, grass, and hay are the food. Fruit is an occasional nibble at most. High-protein grocery diets pyramid the shell. Many Russians slow down in winter. Brumation is a real option for a healthy, well-fed animal and a bad idea for one that is already thin. Weigh them. A tortoise that is light, has a runny nose, or has not eaten after the room warmed up needs a chelonian vet, not another month in the closet.

ARAV is the directory. Appetite loss is the not-eating guide. The checker helps you decide how fast to go.

Russian tortoise questions

Are Russian tortoises good first tortoises?

Often yes, if the enclosure is big and the diet is weeds and hay. Care is beginner. A fish tank with fruit and no UVB is still the wrong beginner setup.

Do they hibernate?

Wild Testudo horsfieldii brumate. A healthy captive can be cooled over winter by someone who has done it with a vet's advice. A sick tortoise should not be put in a fridge because a forum said to.

How long do they live?

Often 40 to 50 years, and longer is reported. A hatchling is a mid-life commitment for the person who buys it.