Russian Tortoise
A popular small tortoise that can do well indoors with strong UVB and a warm basking zone. The real key is a high-fiber diet and room to roam.
scientificName
Testudo horsfieldii
careLevel
Beginner to Intermediate
adultSize
13 to 20 cm
enclosure
Indoor tortoise table 120×60 cm (4×2 ft) minimum; outdoor is best
temperature
Ambient 24 to 27C; basking 32 to 35C
humidity
30 to 50% with a humid hide option
diet
Grasses, weeds, leafy greens (high fiber)
lifespan
40+ years
handling
Limited; more of an observation pet
lighting
UVB + basking light are usually required
weeklyMaintenance
Frequent spot-cleaning; deeper cleaning weekly (aquatic species often more)
Best for
- Owners who can provide strong UVB and proper basking heat
- People who enjoy long-term, routine-based care
- Homes with space for a large table or safe outdoor pen
- Keepers committed to a high-fiber, grazing-style diet
Not ideal for
- Anyone looking for a short-term pet
- Small apartments without space for a large setup
- People who want a cuddly, high-handling pet
- Owners unwilling to manage UVB and temperature correctly
Temperament
- Calm, steady, and routine-oriented
- Enjoys exploring and grazing more than handling
- Can become stressed if enclosure is too small
Daily routine
feeding: Offer a high-fiber diet daily; remove leftover fresh foods.
heatLighting: Confirm UVB and basking lights are running on a consistent schedule.
hydration: Provide water and occasional soaks depending on species and age.
check: Watch appetite, activity, and shell/skin condition.
Living fit
smallHome: Only suitable if you can fit a large tortoise table or have outdoor space.
kids: Great for supervised observation; handling should be limited and gentle.
firstTimeOwner: Russian tortoise can be a good start; giant species are not.
Health notes
- Diet mistakes can cause long-term health issues; keep fiber high and sugars low.
- UVB and calcium balance are critical for shell and bone health.
- Dirty, damp setups can lead to skin and shell problems.
Cost and time
time: Moderate daily time; habitat upkeep is steady.
cost: Moderate to high due to UVB, heat, and enclosure size (very high for large tortoises).
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