Russian Tortoise

(Testudo horsfieldii)

Russian tortoises are small tortoises growing to approximately 8 to 10 inches.  Males have longer, thicker tails.  These tortoises like it warm and dry.  As with most tortoises, they enjoy basking in the sun. They cannot tolerate dampness.  Serious skin and/or respiratory infections can occur if Russian tortoises are allowed to hibernate in the damp ground.  A dry place should be provided for them to hibernate in, such as a dog house filled with Super Soil and a rubber flap on the door to keep out the rain and wind.  Check on the tortoises weekly to be sure they are ok.  If a leg is touched, they should try to withdraw it. 

These tortoises eat a wide variety of weeds, leaves, flowers, and vegetables (no fruit!).  Keep in mind that the darker green the vegetable, the more nutritional value it has.  Dandelions, sow thistle, and clover are favorites.  They also love rose petals and hibiscus flowers.

My Russian tortoises here are very active early in the morning and late afternoon.  They will follow me about and even stand on my foot hoping I might have something for them to eat!