When purchasing a new pet, most people assume the source of that pet to be the expert and ask the 16 year old at the pet store register about crucial care for the animal. But in most cases, as with Russian Tortoises, (aka: steppe tortoise, Afghanistan tortoise, four-toed tortoise, Russian box turtle) the average pet store employee has been supplied with exactly opposite information for a long and healthy life for your tort. And it is that information most people take home with their new pet.
"Your Tortoise is captive born, about 2 years old."
Unless you are dealing with a breeder, chances are your pet store Russian is at least 4 years old, but could be 35 as far as your pet store knows. The majority of Russian Tortoises in the pet trade are wild caught. Raising hatchlings to adulthood is labor intensive and most suppliers go the much cheaper route of importing wild caught adults. Looking at the image from RussianTortoise.org, you can tell that most of the "2 year old" babies that most stores sell are probably more like 20.
"You can tell the sex of a tortoise by the carapace"
While the flatness of the carapace or "bottom shell" is one way to sex some turtle species, it is not a reliable method for Russians. The easiest way is by the tail. A longer tail, usually held to the side, is a sign of a male. short and held straight is female.
"The ideal habitat is a 20-30 gallon aquarium"
Aquariums are deadly for Russian Tortoises, They restrict airflow causing the perfect environment for either dehydration or the other end of the humidity spectrum and shell rot. Much better are a screen reptarium (100 gallon size or larger), a tortoise table, or even a 50 gallon Rubbermaid tote. The best bedding is 50% coconut coir 50% playsand, kept moist but not muddy.
"Feed a staple diet of pellets"
Russian Tortoises need a diet of various greens only. No fleshy vegetables, no fruits other than the rare prickly pear. No pelleted food is going to replace this type of diet, and most include soy, wheat, or other grains. Some appropriate foods are:
- Romaine lettuce
- Red and green leaf lettuce
- Endive
- Escarole
- Radicchio
- Chicory
- Turnip greens
- Mustard greens
- Kale
- Collards
- Spring Mix (mixed salad greens)
- cabbage (on occasion)
- other choices.
Failing to feed a variety of healthy greens can cause pyramiding, Metabolic Bone Disorder, and other deformities. Vitamins from a natural source, such as TNT, sold at Carolina Pet Supply, are most easily digested and used efficiently.
"Tortoises can get all the water they need from their food"
For optimum health a Russian Tort should have access to water to soak, drink, and poop in at all times. In addition, a weekly baby-bath temperature soak in shallow water helps with shedding and hydration.
"Any UVA bulb should do for basking"
Russian Tortoises, like most reptiles, can not process nutrients without sunshine, which has both UVA and UVB. A bulb like T-Rex or Powersun that lists both UVA and UVB will work for heat and light.
"Tortoises are interesting animals, but don't make engaging pets."
A conversation with any of the tortoise owners at the Russian Tortoise Yahoo Group and you will likely hear stories of funny antics, unique personalities, and playing favorites like you would with any group of pet parents of dogs or cats. Russian Tortoises can learn to recognize their owners and wait for their lunch in their food dishes. They can be wonderful pets!
By ignoring the misinformation your local pet shop employee tells you about these amazing animals you will ensure happy and healthy torts that will provide years of entertainment to your family.
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BethAnn Mayberry - I'm a 31 year old single woman, a Christian and a Mormon, and a prolific blogger. Long time pet owner and rescue/rehab volunteer. Animal ...
