Russian Tortoise Tortoises can be long-lived pets if maintained properly. It is estimated that their lifespan can reach upwards of 50 years. Shell fading may occur as tortoises mature. It is therefore suggested that a diet rich in yellow and red pigmentation be utilized to help reduce this problem. Adult shell length can reach a 12" diameter. Have the new terrarium completely set up before bringing your new friend home. Additionally, make sure your new family member is allowed enough time to adjust to its new home before any attempt to handle it.

Feeding Russian tortoises are vegetarian (eat only plant matter). Therefore their diet should include vegetables, fruit, and prepared foods (such as canned turtle food). Suggested foods: romaine or green leaf lettuce, green peppers, tomatoes, cooked sweet potatoes, squash, cauliflower, thawed frozen mixed vegetables, berries, cherries, bananas, and plums. When feeding fruits & vegetables, use four vegetables to every fruit per meal. Russian tortoises should only be fed fruits sparingly. It may be best to only offer fruits in every third or fourth feeding. Red fruits are great for shy eaters as turtles and tortoises are naturally attracted to the color red. Feeding tortoises every other day is suggested as well as dusting food with vitamin/calcium powder every other feeding. Always remove food four hours after it is offered to prevent spoilage. A shallow water dish is recommended to allow tortoise to soak without the risk of drowning. Make sure that the water dish is easy to enter and exit, and changed daily.

Housing Individual tortoises can be maintained in a 40 to 55 gallon terrarium. A screen lid is essential for proper air exchange. For multiple pets, increase habitat size accordingly to ensure each tortoise has plenty of space to move about and not interfere with tankmates. Ideal daytime temperature for Russian tortoises should range between 70 and 85 degrees. Additionally, a basking area should maintain a local temperature of 95 to 105 degrees. Night time temperature should remain between 60 and 70 degrees.

The humidity for these tortoises should be kept at or near 55 percent. An undertank heater should be placed on the same end of the tank used for basking. A shelter for hiding is necessary, especially if multiple pets are in the same enclosure. Misting the habitat once daily will help maintain proper humidity levels. All tortoises require ultraviolet lighting to maintain good health and shell structure. Ultraviolet lighting is recommended for 12 hours per day. The use of a timer will help to maintain an accurate lighting schedule.

For bedding, 2" to 3" of Bed-A-Beast is recommended for tortoise terrariums to encourage their natural burrowing instinct. The substrate should be kept moist, but changed regularly to avoid bacterial growth.