Scientific Name: Testudo horsfieldii

These tortoises are native to Southeastern Russia through Eastern Iran, Northwest Pakistan, and Afghanistan.  It is a burrow dweller native to dry, barren, rocky deserts and dry forests.  In these arid regions it is often found near springs or brooks where grasses and vegetation can be found. The tortoises retreat to their burrows to escape the summer heat.  It is the only testudo with four claws on each foot, with Four- toed tortoise being one of its many common names.

Maximum size: 9”

Life span: Can reach extreme ages in captivity, some recorded at over 100 years.

Temperature range:  Day 70°-85° F  Night 55°-65° F

Lighting:  When housed indoors, florescent UVB bulbs and a basking light are required.

Food:  Diet should consist of a variety of dark leafy greens, squash, and corn.  Use a high quality calcium and multi-vitamin supplement daily.  Fruits should be offered sparingly as excess sugar can cause digestive problems.

Water:  A large bowl of fresh, clean water should be provided daily.

Housing/Habitat: Tortoises do best if housed outdoors allowing them to receive natural sunlight.   They must be housed in a secure pen, as they are very good diggers and climbers.  A wire mesh pen set several inches into the ground, works best.  The bottom of the pen should be covered with enough soft sand and orchid or cypress bark to facilitate digging and burrowing. Shelter from damp or rainy conditions must be provided.  The tortoise should be moved to a dry indoor terrarium in prolonged spells of cold, wet weather.  Tortoises can be housed indoors in a dry terrarium with the same substrate as outdoors and the addition of proper lighting.