Description

Russian tortoises are a small tortoise species, ranging from about 15 to 25 cm (6-10 inches). They are sexually dimorphic in that the females grow slightly larger, males tend to have a longer tail that is generally tucked to the side, and females tend to have flared scutes on their shells, while males do not. Coloration varies, but the shell is usually a ruddy brown or black, fading to yellow between the scutes, and the body itself straw-yellow and brown.

Distribution and ecology

The Russian Tortoise ranges from Afghanistan to north-western China, through the countries of Russia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Pakistan. It usually lives in dry areas with sparse vegetation.

Russian tortoises hibernate during winter and estivate during the summer when temperatures are high. They are avid burrowers and can dig large burrows that might be two meters (several feet) long. They are herbivorous, and active grazers when the temperature is right, consuming a wide variety of weeds and grasses. In captivity, suitable foodplants include:

• Lactuca sativa lettuce, especially Romaine and green and red Looseleaf cultivars
• Dandelions, a favorite
• Zucchini
• Cucumbers
• Tomatoes

In captivity
Russian tortoises are popular pets primarily because of their small size, but they are also an extremely hardy species. While captive breeding is still not commonplace (though it is done), wild caught specimens adapt well to captivity and readily consume a wide variety of fiberous greens, grasses and vegetables. They will also eat fruit, (apples are one of the best choices) but should only be given it in very small quantities, as excess sugar can cause bacterial blooms in their stomaches.