Russian Horsfield Tortoise Care

Species Type

Central Asian Tortoise

Scientific Name

Testudo horsfieldii

Ag horsfieldii

Adult Size

15-20cm

Lifespan

40-60 years+

Humidity

Low to low-moderate

Natural Habitat

Dry grasslands, scrubland and semi-arid regions of central asia

To care for a Horsfield Tortoise correctly, we must look at how and where they live in the wild.

The Russian tortoise, also known as the Horsfield’s tortoise, is native to Central Asia. Unlike Mediterranean species, they experience more extreme seasonal changes, including very hot summers and cold winters.

They are natural burrowers and require deep substrate to express natural behaviour.

Captive care should focus on:

✔ Dry conditions

✔ Strong UVB exposure

✔ Deep substrate for digging

✔ High-fibre weed-based diet

Outdoor Enclosure (Primary Recommendation)

Outdoor housing is the most natural and appropriate environment.

Enclosure Size

As large as possible. Minimum 8ft x 4ft recommended for an adult.

Include:

• Secure, predator-proof walls

• Burrow-friendly soil

• Dry, well-drained ground

• Access to natural weeds

• Shaded retreat areas


Russian tortoises are strong diggers — ensure fencing extends below ground.

UK Adaptations

The UK Climate is not the same as their wild environment, so adaptations are necessary.

You may need:

  • A cold frame or tortoise house
  • Supplemental heat lamp and UVB
  • Safe basking area
  • Shelter from excessive rain
  • Protection from damp conditions

Outdoor living should always provide:

  • A basking zone
  • A cooler retreat
  • Dry, warm sleeping area

Indoor Enclosure (Alternative Setup)

Indoor setups are sometimes necessary.

Recommended:

  • Open-topped tortoise table (not glass vivarium)
  • Minimum 4ft x 2ft for a young tortoise, larger for adults.

Lighting

  • UVB strip light (12%)
  • Heat flood lamp creating basking spot of 32-35°C
  • 10-12 hours light cycle

Substrate

  • Top Soil/sand mix
  • Avoid woodchip, pellets, artificial grass

Humidity
Russian Tortoises do not need high humidity, even as juveniles. It is not natural for them and can lead to respiratory issues if constantly exposed to damp substrate.

Temperature gradient must always be provided:

  • Warm basking end
  • Cooler end around 20–22°C

Hydration

Always provide:

  • Fresh daily water (shallow dish)
  • Access to drinking water at all times

Tortoises can be bathed a few times a week in shallow water to encourage hydration.

Hydration is important for healthy growth and Kidney function.

Supplements

Correct supplementation supports shell and bone development.

Calcium

  • Lightly dust food 4-5 times per week
  • Provide a cuttle bone

Vitamin D3

  • Only if artificial UVB is used
  • Lightly dust 1-2 times per week
  • Not required if living outdoors with natural sunlight

Feeding Overview

Horsfield tortoises are primarily herbivorous grazers.

Diet should consist mainly of:

  • Fresh weeds
  • High-fibre plants/flowers
  • Some dried weeds

Avoid:

  • Fruit and vegetables
  • High-protein foods
  • Supermarket lettuce as staple
  • Pelleted diets as main food source


 Tortoise Safe Foods

Growth/Health

It is important to track your tortoises:

  • Weight
  • Straight carapace length
  • General Health observations

If you are concerned about your tortoises health, always seek a medical opinion from a reptile veterinarian.

You can download our printable Hermanns Tortoise Health Chart below.

 Health Chart

Brumation (Hibernation)

Brumation is the natural winter dormancy period of some tortoises such as Horsfields. In the wild, they retreat underground during colder months when temperatures drop and food becomes scarce.

For this species, brumation is part of their natural annual cycle.

⚠️ Important: Not Every Tortoise Should Brumate

A tortoise should only brumate if:

  • ✅ It is healthy
  • ✅ It has good body weight
  • ✅ It is parasite-free
  • ✅ It has been properly prepared

Do not brumate if:

  • ❌ Underweight
  • ❌ Recently ill
  • ❌ Respiratory symptoms
  • ❌ Runny nose or eyes
  • ❌ Soft shell issues
  • ❌ Poor growth

A pre-brumation health check with a reptile vet is strongly recommended.

How Long?

Typically:

  • 8–12 weeks

Temperature Range

3°C – 7°C

  • Below 2°C = risk of freezing
  • Above 8°C = metabolism rises and fat stores are depleted

Stable temperature is critical.

Preparation Phase (Autumn)

Preparation is gradual and essential:

  1. Reduce feeding as temperatures drop.
  2. Allow natural gut emptying.
  3. Continue offering water.
  4. Maintain hydration.

Hydration before dormancy is vital.

Brumation Methods

Common methods include:

  • Outdoor natural brumation (secure, frost-protected housing)
  • Refrigeration method (temperature-controlled and monitored)


The key principles:

  • Stable temperature
  • Good ventilation
  • Dry but not dehydrating environment
  • Regular monitoring

UK Keepers – Important Consideration

The UK climate is cooler and wetter than their natural Mediterranean habitat.

Outdoor brumation must include:

  • Secure predator-proof enclosure
  • Excellent drainage
  • Frost protection
  • Dry, insulated overnight housing

In some regions, controlled brumation indoors may be safer.

Monitoring During Brumation

Weigh before brumation begins.

During brumation:

  • Check periodically (without disturbing excessively)
  • Weight loss should be minimal
  • Excessive weight loss requires immediate action


Download Brumation Monitoring Chart below

 Brumation Chart