Is this Ok for a Horsefield tortoise?

[Cael Gallagher]

I am planning to convert this bench into a a new home for my horsefield tortoise , he is 5 years old. I'm unsure whether I am going to use the lid but if I do I will put a window on it and drill holes for ventilation. Is this ok?

 

[JoesMum]

It's hard to judge the size from the picture. What would be the Length and width of the floor space available to your tortoise?

 

[Gillian M]

Hi @Cael Gallagher and a very warm welcome to the forum.

I like the idea, though I think it's too small. Please keep in mind that torts are used to roam around as they like in the wild, without borders.

Any pics of your tort?

 

[Cael Gallagher]

Its roughly 120 mm by 80mm

 

[JoesMum]

Its roughly 120 mm by 80mm

For those members that use imperial measurements that translates into 3'11" x 2'7".

And how long is your tortoise?

Here's how to measure Straight Carapace Length
http://www.tlady.clara.net/measure.htm

My thoughts are that it's rather on the small side for what should be a relatively mature size tortoise at that age.

Horsfields (also known as Russians) are very active torts that need lots of space. They love to dig and climb and are very good at escaping.

You should be aiming for 1.2x2.4 metres (4'x8') which is the minimum for a grown tort of this species.

 

[Cael Gallagher]

He's about 10 cm

 

[Gillian M]

He's about 10 cm

Again, would you please post pics of your tort.

 

[Cael Gallagher]

 

[JoesMum]

Nice looking tort You have done a good job. However at around 13cm/5 inches your tort needs a bigger enclosure than that bench.

A large old bookcase layed on its back with the shelves knocked out is worth considering. You will need to cap the corners to thwart escape attempts.

 

[Cael Gallagher]

Thank You, I'll now likely build a tortoise table, any suggestions for what I can decorate the interior with?

 

[Gillian M]

View attachment 199070 View attachment 199072

Oh, isn't he cute! Please give him daily soaks in warm water, and make sure his enclosure is nice and warm.

 

[JoesMum]

Thank You, I'll now likely build a tortoise table, any suggestions for what I can decorate the interior with?

Take a look in the enclosures forum there are dozens of really nice setups for you to browse for ideas

 

[Cael Gallagher]

Thanks for the help!