Do Russian tortoises hibernate in the summer?
Yes, most Russian tortoises hibernate during the winter, and some of them hibernate during the summer. Most commonly Russian tortoises will usually hibernate in a hole that they dug underground. While most animals are only able to hibernate during the winter, some Russian tortoises are also able to do so in the summer.
Why is my Russian tortoise hiding?
It’s thought that it’s because in the wild, being so small, they need to hide away so that they don’t become prey. Additionally as with any baby, sleep is a large part of their biological make up when so young. Tortoises will rest in all sorts of uncomfortable looking positions!
What’s the temperature of a Russian tortoise at night?
When indoors all of my Northern Mediterranean tortoises (Hermann’s, Greek Ibera, Marginateds) and my Russian tortoises are kept in daytime temperatures that range in the low 80’s and drop to anywhere from about 62-65 degrees at night.
Is it OK to keep a Russian tortoise outside?
Lastly, Russian tortoises for sale are one of the few species that can be kept outdoors in most areas once mature. Depending on your average seasonal temperatures, Russians may be kept outside, year round. Most importantly, these factors make Russian tortoises attractive for new tortoise keepers.
When to turn off the heat for a tortoise?
Greeks and Hermanns require the same care. If your tortoise is sick, than all bets are off. Elevated temps 24/7 are needed. Your MVB is like the sun and should only be on for 12 to 14 hours a day and then turned off so they can have a dark period and I use a black light bulb at night for my babies. I don’t think they should get too cold.
When do Russian tortoises go into hibernation?
Russian tortoises hibernate when it becomes cold, usually between around October and March. Tortoises are known for aestivation, which is very similar to hibernation. They have this sort of behavior when their habitat is too hot or they’re lacking sufficient amounts of food or water.
Do you need to heat a Russian tortoise at night?
That is absolutely fine for a Russian tortoise at night. In fact, it can go down a bit lower. No need for night heat at those temps. The key is keeping the lights on long enough (you are) and achieving a warm enough basking area and ambient area during the day.
Is it possible to keep a Russian tortoise outside?
Let’s start with their enclosure. Russian tortoises are unique in the fact that you can keep them outside if your climate permits it. Generally, those living in the southern United States can do this because temperatures stay relatively warm all year long.
When do Russian tortoises come out of hibernation?
In Las Vegas, my tortoises bed down at various times during the fall and come out of hibernation in mid-February. Indoors, Russian tortoises can be maintained at normal room temperatures: 68 to 80 degrees. They should also have access to an area heated by an overhead light.
What kind of problems can a Russian tortoise have?
Humidity: Humidity is an important consideration with Russian tortoises. It is also very misunderstood. There are those that claim that high humidity will cause shell rot and respiratory infection. This is only partially true. High humidity, damp substrate AND cool temperatures cause problems.
