Adopting two Russian torts

[swatsx]

So after years of wanting a tortoise I am getting two free on Thursday right now the owner feeds from what I understand only romaine lettuce I'm doing my research to give them the best care I can it's going to be a male and female about 3-4 years old any tips would be greatly appreciated

 

[swatsx]

The one coming out of the house is the female

 

[Yvonne G]

You may have to continue feeding romaine and slowly introduce better more nutritious greens while slowly, over time reducing the amount of romaine.

 

[swatsx]

I'll do that, should I do like a baby a slowly feed new foods one at a time?

 

[leigti]

I would get a variety of foods and Romain and chop it up small and mix it together. Also, to Russians should not be kept together. You will need to separate enclosures. Tortoises don't want friends. They do better alone overall. And pears almost never works out. Welcome to the forum, and I know you will enjoy your new tortoises.

 

[swatsx]

Is the substrate their on ok? Or should I do sand and coco core mix

 

[leigti]

I would use coconut coir without sand. Sand can cause impaction.

 

[swatsx]

Now if I did want to try and breed them do I just introduce them to each other a little bit every day? Since keeping them in the same cage could lead to her death

 

[leigti]

I would think so. But I think somebody with experience reading Russian tortoises should answer that. @Tom I know there are more people I just can't think of their names right now. But Tom can point you towards others. If you could get a group of one male and 2or 3 or more females they might be able to stay together. But even then you might have one or two that have to be separated.