This tortoise with such a small stature really melted my heart when I first saw it at a friend’s place. I did feel sorry for it in a way, being cooped up in a small place all day long. These tiny Russian tortoises would definitely need ample love and care for looking after them! Being a popular pet option with most people, I decided to compile information with regards to the lifestyle and behavior patterns of the Russian tortoise.
Description of the Russian Tortoise:The Russian tortoise is also known as the Horsfield’s Tortoise, Central Asian Tortoise, Afghan Tortoise or the Four Toed Tortoise. The Russian tortoise is small in size and its length can reach from 15 to 25 cms. They have around 4 toes per foot. Each toe has very highly developed claws, which are used for digging. Their round shaped carapace has a greenish shade. This green shade can range to an olive brownish shade as well which also has patches of black. The females are always larger in size than the males. Yet another difference between the female Russian tortoise and the male is that the females have flared scutes on their shells. Scutes are the bony external plates, which are found on the shell of the tortoise. Scutes are considered to be very similar to scales, but the major difference in this remains to be that scutes are derived from the epidermis.
Distribution of the Russian Tortoise:The Russian tortoise is found in Russia, Azerbaijan, North Western China, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan etc. When in the wild, Russian tortoises live in a dry environment. Russian tortoises are found along the rocky hillsides as these provide it ample areas to hide for cover. During the winter season, the Russian tortoise is known to hibernate. They use their well-developed claws to burrow deep into the soil. Their large burrows are sometimes even 2 meters long.
Environment needed for the Russian Tortoise:The Russian tortoise is facing a lot of problem in the wild due to the loss of its natural habitat. Survival for the Russian tortoise is a major concern because they are bound to go on the verge of extinction because of the several human constructions that are being constructed in their natural habitats. The Russian tortoise is also bred in captivity and also turns out to be popular as pets due to their small size. Let us consider some factors that you would require to take notice with regards to the feeding habits and other issues related to the Russian tortoise.
Diet of the Russian Tortoise:The Russian tortoises are herbivorous animals that feed on various weeds and grasses. These are known to graze for a long period if the temperature of the place is suitable for the Russian tortoise. When bred, the Russian tortoise would require a diet that is high in fiber and low in protein. This diet would also need to be rich in calcium as well. It is better to give the Russian tortoise a diet that includes loads of edible grasses, romaince lettuce, cactus pods, hibiscus leaves etc. Always remember to offer fresh water to the Russian tortoise at all times during the day. Fruits should always be given in smaller quantities to the Russian tortoise. This is solely because the Russian tortoise requires a diet that is high in fibers rather than protein.
Habits and Maintenance of the Russian Tortoise:The Russian tortoise generally loves to climb and dig a lot. This could also be because when they are in the wild, they need to move constantly. Burrows would be dug because they feel the need to hide in it. Therefore, you would need to ensure that their habitat is such that it provides them space to move around and very much secure at the same time. These would not be very happy indoors. You must ensure it has an enclosure that at least 2 feet X 4 feet. There should be enough soil or sand, which would allow it to burrow.
If you have added a tank as well, note that you would need to clean this tank at least once a week. While doing so, always place the tortoise aside in a safe place. You would need to scrub the tank with some bleach solution followed by a thorough rinse with water.
The temperature for the Russian tortoises should never be too extreme. The ideal temperatures would be at 70 degrees to 80 degrees F in the day time and around 65 degrees to 75 degrees F in the night time. Russian tortoises need adequate light and you can use incandescent lights, which could be provided for basking.
