If you’re thinking of getting a Russian tortoise there are a few things you’ll need to provide to make sure your pet tortoise is comfortable and healthy. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
A suitable enclosure: Your tortoise will need an enclosure that is big enough for him to move around in and that has a warm dry area for him to bask in. The enclosure should also have a hide box for your tortoise to retreat to when he wants to sleep or feels stressed.
A basking spot: Russian tortoises need a basking spot where the temperature is between 85-95 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be achieved with a basking lamp.
UVB lighting: Like all reptiles Russian tortoises need UVB lighting to help them absorb calcium and prevent metabolic bone disease.
A good diet: A diet for a Russian tortoise should consist of dark leafy greens like collard greens and kale as well as fresh vegetables like carrots squash and green beans. You can also give your tortoise a small amount of fruit as a treat. Avoid feeding your tortoise iceberg lettuce as it is low in nutrients.
Fresh water: Your tortoise will need a bowl of fresh water to drink and soak in. Change the water daily.
Proper humidity: The humidity in your tortoise’s enclosure should be between 30-50%. This can be achieved by using a humidifier or by misting the enclosure with water.
Now that you know what you need to provide for your Russian tortoise you can start setting up his home!
What is the smallest size enclosure a Russian tortoise can live in?
Answer: At least a 20-gallon tank for a baby and a 40-60 gallon tank for an adult.
What kind of substrate is best for a Russian tortoise?
Answer: A loose well-draining substrate like sand coconut coir or a mix of the two.
What kind of plants can I put in my Russian tortoise enclosure?
Answer: Non-toxic edibles like dandelions clover parsley and hibiscus.
How often should I bathe my Russian tortoise?
Answer: 1-2 times a week in warm water.
What kind of lighting does my Russian tortoise need?
Answer: UVB lighting is necessary for vitamin D3 synthesis.
How can I tell if my Russian tortoise is healthy?
Answer: Clear eyes a dry nose no mucus or crust on the shell regular bowel movements and active behavior.
What should I do if my Russian tortoise gets sick?
Answer: Take them to a reptile-savvy veterinarian as soon as possible.
What are some common health problems in Russian tortoises?
Answer: Respiratory infections shell rot and pyramiding.
What is the temperature range that Russian tortoises like?
Answer: 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit at night.
What is the best way to heat my Russian tortoise enclosure?
Answer: An undertank heater on one side of the enclosure with a basking spot on the other side.
How can I provide humidity for my Russian tortoise?
Answer: Mist the enclosure lightly 1-2 times a day or provide a shallow water dish.
What should I feed my Russian tortoise?
Answer: A diet of dark leafy greens like kale and collards with a small amount of fruits and vegetables.
How often should I feed my Russian tortoise?
Answer: 1-2 times a day depending on size.
What are some common foods that are poisonous to Russian tortoises?
Answer: Avocados rhubarb and garlic.
What should I do if I think my Russian tortoise has eaten something poisonous?
Answer: Take them to a reptile-savvy veterinarian as soon as possible.
