Are Russian tortoises good pets?

With a relatively small size but big personality, the Russian Tortoise is one of the most popular tortoises kept as a pet. They are very active and responsive to their owners, and they make great first reptiles when cared for properly.

Is a Russian tortoise good for beginners?

Russian Tortoise If they are housed indoors, they should be kept at room temperature and have a hot basking area, UVB light, and 30%-50% humidity. This Tortoise is hardy and has an ability to adapt to different temperatures which makes them easy-to-care for beginners.

Can Russian tortoises be kept indoors?

While Russian tortoises can be kept indoors, if you live in an area where the climate permits it, keep them outdoors in a proper tortoise pen. Cage furniture can be minimal. We provide all indoor tortoises with at least one hide area if not two (one in the cooler part and one in the warm area of the enclosure).

Do Russian tortoises like to be held?

Although sociable with humans, they shouldn’t be housed with other tortoises in captivity because of their territorial nature. Two males should especially not be kept together. If one male and one female are housed together then the male may become overly sexual and harass the female.

Do tortoises bond with humans?

Tortoises and turtles are very intelligent, so it is not hard to believe that they can form bonds and love their owners.

What do I need to know before buying a Russian tortoise?

What to Know Before Buying a Tortoise

  • Turtles ARE NOT Tortoises! A very common misconception is labeling tortoises as turtles, and vice versa.
  • Know Your Species. Not all tortoises are the same.
  • Lifetime Friend.
  • Enclosure Size.
  • Tortoise Diet.
  • UVB Lighting.

How big of a cage does a Russian tortoise need?

And because these common household reptiles can grow as big as 8-9 inches, the tortoise enclosure should be at least 10 times as long, 5 times as wide and 3 times as high as the tortoise you are building for (40-50 gallon).

Can I leave my Russian tortoise outside?

Russian tortoises do best when kept in outdoor enclosures with a minimum of 24-inch high walls from the ground up to prevent escape. Russian tortoises are excellent climbers and escape artists!

Do Russian tortoises smell?

Tortoises do not smell bad and they don’t have much of a natural odour. At most, they may smell musty or just have an outdoorsy, musky smell. However, their enclosures can sometimes become breeding grounds for bacteria and other odor-causing organisms if you don’t clean them well enough.

How often should I soak my Russian tortoise?

Regular bathing is recommended to keep your Russian tortoise hydrated, clean, and healthy. Vets recommend bathing hatchlings daily, and adults once a week. To properly bathe your Russian tortoise, gather the appropriate supplies, soak and gently wash your tortoise, and clean up carefully when you are done.