Russian tortoises are natural hibernators. If the weather is too cold for extended periods of time, their bodies will begin to shut down and go into sleep mode. During spring and fall, the weather will tend to dip, and depending on where you live it could dip too low for your Russian tortoise.
What Temperature is Too Cold for a Russian Tortoise?
Russian tortoises can handle temperatures as low as 45°F, however it is not ideal to leave your tortoise in this weather unless hibernating.
Anything below 45°F is too cold. If the low temperature regularly drops below 45°F, you want to consider adding additional heat to an indoor enclosure or bringing your outdoor tortoise inside. Again, if you are hibernating the Russian tortoise, the temperature situation is a little different and should be between 39-41°F.
Should I Put My Russian Tortoise Outside in the Cold?
Adult Russian tortoises can handle colder weather better than baby tortoises. Baby Russian tortoises are more fragile than adults, so you want to keep them in a warmer environment when the temperature is too cold.
If the the temperature is between 65 and 70°F and sunny, your baby Russian tortoise should ok outside. In an indoor enclosure, you want the ambient temperature to be no lower than 70°F with a basking site of about 95°F.
Cold and Sunny
Even on chilly days, if the sun is out, the temperature can feel warmer than it is. On these days, you can often get away with taking your tortoise outside for a little bit. Keep an eye on the carapace temperature with a digital temperature gun.
Cold and Humid
On days when it is chilly and humid, the weather may feel colder than it actually is. On these days, you may want to leave your tortoise inside.
Cold and Dry
On days when it is chilly but the air and ground is dry, the temperature may feel warmer. On these days, you can often get away with taking your Russian tortoise outside. Just keep an eye on its carapace temperature.
