When researching Russian tortoises, it’s important to consider how much a Russian tortoise cost. You’re not just paying for the animal, but you’re paying for the setup and lifelong care. And, unlike getting a new dog or a cat, a Russian tortoise is going to live about 40-50 years, so the expenses add up.
How Much is a Russian Tortoise?
There are several factors that will cause variation in the price of a Russian tortoise.
- Age of the tortoise
- Gender
- Overall appearance (wear on the shell, split scutes, etc)
- Where you purchase the tortoise
Age of the Tortoise
Baby Russian tortoises average around $250-300. Yearling Russian tortoises can cost upwards of $400.
If the tortoise is older, you will generally get a better price, averaging around $200.
Gender of the Tortoise
Female Russian tortoises are often more expensive than male Russian tortoises.
Females Russian tortoises average around $200, whereas male Russian tortoises average around $150.
Tortoise Shell and Appearance
If you’re looking to purchase an adult tortoise, you may find sellers who may have tortoises with more wear and damage to the shell. The seller may offer these tortoises at a slightly lower price for the imperfection.
You may find some Russian tortoises available for cheaper if they have split scutes. Tortoises with split scutes are otherwise healthy. They are merely missing a scute or have extra scutes.
Seller
You will likely find a price variation on WHERE you purchase the Russian tortoise. Breeders often sell tortoises cheaper than what you’ll find at a local pet shop. You may find an even lower price if you buy a Russian tortoise from a reptile show versus online; plus shopping at a reptile expo for a tortoise will eliminate any shipping fees, as you’re shopping in person.
Some breeders will sell baby Russian tortoises on the lower end if they have a surplus. However, this isn’t typically common since Russian tortoises typically only lay 3-5 eggs per batch.
Larger chain pet stores aren’t always the best place to purchase a reptile. However, the price is often cheaper than at a smaller local shop. Plus, at larger chains, they’ll often have sales available, discounting the price more.
How Much Does it Cost to Raise a Russian Tortoise?
Buying the animal is only one cost, but raising the animal adds to years of expenses.
The first set of expenses you will incur is the enclosure setup.
- Tortoise enclosure – $25 – $100+
- UVB lamp – $20 – $100
- Ceramic heat emitter – $10 – $20
- Substrate – $5+
- Food dish – $5+
- Water bowl – $5
- House/Hide – $15+
Tortoise Enclosure
Russian tortoises can live entirely inside. That means you’ll need to have a good indoor enclosure that will provide ample room for exercise, thermoregulation, basking, eating, drinking and sleeping. The larger the enclosure, the better, but the larger the enclosure, the more it expensive it will be.
If you buy a tortoise enclosure, the cost will vary. A large storage tub, may cost upwards of $25, whereas a pre-made tortoise table may cost $100. Larger enclosures or glass aquariums may cost even more. Plus, keep in mind that aquariums will need more modifications to ensure the humidity and heat is correct and stress is minimized.
Even if you plan on housing the Russian tortoise inside most of the time, it’s still important to build an outdoor enclosure for natural sunlight and grazing. This cost of building a outdoor enclosure could run from $100 and up depending on the materials and size.
Lighting and Heat
Depending on what watt and brand and type of bulbs that you purchase, the price will vary. Also keep in mind that some bulbs need replacement more often. Where some bulbs may last 6 – 12 months, others need to be replaced every 3 months or so.
On average, you may find bulbs cost about $40 each. Plus, you’ll need the clamp and the light hood, which can total another $15-$25. A UV hood can cost about $30 – $50.
Substrate
Depending on the size of the indoor enclosure, the amount of substrate that you need will vary. The larger the enclosure, the more substrate you need, and you’ll want a few inches of substrate throughout the enclosure.
Purchase organic top soil or cypress mulch from a local garden center in a large bag. The large bag is more expensive on the initial purchase, but it will last longer, costing less in the long run. Otherwise, you can buy compressed coco coir bricks for about $5 – $10.
Cost of Electricity
When housing a Russian tortoise inside, don’t forget that it costs to run the heat and lights. On average, you may spend about $10 – $15 a month running the equipment.
Russian Tortoise Food
Russian tortoises are grazing tortoises. They eat mostly broadleaf weeds, greens and some grasses. Depending on how you plan on housing the tortoise, you may have to supplement the diet with commercial pellets or grocery store greens which is an added expense unless you grow your own tortoise foods.
You may also purchase Mazuri or ZooMed Grassland diet, or another tortoise pellet. If you purchase smaller bags, the cost may range from $10 – $15. Larger bags, may cost upwards of $50.
Vet Care
Although, caring for a pet tortoise is not the same as a dog that needs annual shots. It’s a smart idea to know a qualified reptile vet who is familiar with tortoises. Keep in mind that not all reptile vets are familiar with tortoises. Ask questions when researching veterinarians in your area.
You may need a vet to check for worms, treat worms, dog bite or animal attack, beak trim, microchipping, routine blood work, etc.
Reptile veterinarians can be much more expensive than a regular dog and cat vet. Even a routine check can be more costly than your dog, and if treatment is required, it is likely to cost a lot more, as well. Routine care, like blood work and checking for worms may only cost about $50 plus the vet visit of $35+.
There are some places that offer pet insurance for tortoises, but not all pet insurance companies cover exotic pets, like tortoises. If you choose to purchase pet insurance, shop around and check the fine details. Don’t pay for something you don’t need or won’t use.
