Are you in need of some quick answers regarding your latest pet? Well, luckily for you – we’re here to answer all questions.
General
How much will everything cost for a Russian tortoise?
The price for a Russian Tortoise can vary depending on your budget and the intended sizes of the outdoor and indoor habitats. While the pricing for a Russian Tortoise ranges from 80-200 US dollars, the pricing of other aspects can build up as well. So, it’s important to observe all aspects.
How can I tell how old my Russian Tortoise is?
Knowing the hatch-date is the easiest and most surefire way of figuring out how old your pet is. However, if this information is unknown, you can always check the rings on their shell. Though, these rates of growth are more an approximate form of showing age as they can grow at randomized rates.
Is there any easy way to tell the gender of a Russian Tortoise?
A simple way to tell the sex is by observing the tail. Females have a much shorter tail called a cloaca while males have a “spur”. A spur is a longer version of the female tail that assists in the mating process.
At what age do Russian tortoises stop growing?
They tend to slow the growing process drastically after they reach 6-8 inches in length. However they never truly stop growing and always have the potential to get bigger.
Are Russian Tortoises great pets?
They are great pets for anyone who enjoys the company of a small-sized and low-maintenance pet. The animal, however, is a lifelong partner and has a tendency to be shy in the beginning, but in time they warm up.
Health
My Russian tortoise won’t eat?
Tortoises tend to avoid eating when it isn’t warm enough, be sure to check the conditions within the indoor enclosure. It can also be beneficial to gather a fecal test and visit the local vet if there are further issues.
Why does my Russian tortoise have diarrhea?
Tortoises’ are prone to the effects of endoparasites that inevitably have adverse effects on their digestive systems. Some clear examples include worms and protozoa – though internal parasites can also be the main cause.
How do I clean a Russian Tortoise’s shell?
When cleaning their shell, it’s important to allow them to gently soak in water, once this happens you’re free to scrub their shell with a fine brush. Never use soap to clean them.
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Housing
Do Russian tortoises have to be outside?
No, they’re capable of being held within indoor and outdoor enclosures.
What do Russian tortoises like to play with?
Pet toys of all sorts tend to work fine, though they don’t often acknowledge toys that much – a well-maintained habitat makes them much happier.
Do Russian tortoises need company?
They tend to get along much better with tortoises of the same gender, though if you’re introducing a friend it’s important to place their new friend in solitary confinement for a select quarantine period.
When should I move my Russian Tortoise outdoors?
Ensuring that proper precautions are taken, they should be ready for outdoor conditions straight away.
Are aquariums okay for small Russian Tortoises?
They are okay to an extent but can cause some health issues if not properly cared for.
Are Russian tortoises aggressive?
These animals are rarely aggressive or antagonistic; they are often welcoming and friendly.
Feeding
How often should I feed my Russian tortoise?
Giving them a nice feed once a day is typically enough for the standard Russian tortoise.
What are some good treats to give to Russian Tortoises?
Russian tortoises tend to enjoy some broad leafed plants and because of this weeds and flowers can be seen as treats. Dandelions are a common favorite.
Can Russian tortoises eat spinach, parsley, iceberg lettuce, apples, grapes, strawberries, Brussels-sprouts or cauliflower leaves?
Tortoises are known to eat parsley, lettuce leaves, strawberries, grapes and Brussel-sprouts. Cauliflower, celery, spinach and apples are not recommended.
Breeding
How old do tortoises have to be to breed? How many eggs does a Russian tortoise lay?
Sexual maturity is reached after 4-5 years and once conception occurs, the tortoise lays 2-5 eggs per clutch.
How long does it take for a Russian tortoise egg to hatch?
An egg can take up to two days for a hatchling to break out of an egg.
How to tell if a Russian tortoise egg is fertile?
If the tortoise has attempted to nest the eggs, then they are fertile, if no attempt is made then fertility is unlikely.
Hibernation
Do you have to hibernate your Russian tortoise?
It is not strictly necessary for Russian tortoises to hibernate, though some view it to be necessary. Though in the wild, they are known to hibernate regularly.
Russian tortoise hibernation age?
The Russian tortoise can begin to benefit from hibernation from as little as eight weeks.
Sources
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/how-can-i-tell-the-age-of-my-russian-tortoise.47476/
http://www.russiantortoise.net/male_female.htm
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/russian-tortoise-wont-eat.13732/
http://www.wikihow.com/Bathe-a-Russian-Tortoise
http://russiantortoisepictures.com/forum/index.php?topic=2457.0
http://www.thetortoisetable.org.uk/site/plants_19.asp?thissection=8
http://www.tortoisetrust.org/articles/eggfaq.html
http://russiantortoise.net/breeding.htm
