Russian Tortoise Hibernation?

RussianTORTIES

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I'm a beginner to Russian tortoise care. So I have a question on hibernation. Will Russian tortoises hibernate automatically? If they don't, do I need to make sure it hibernates, or can they live a healthy life without hibernating?
-Thank you! :)
 

TechnoCheese

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Nope, hibernating isn’t necessary! They’ll usually go into hibernation when they detect subtle details, like the days being shorter, or it getting slightly colder. If you see that they’re slowing down a bit during the winter, just leave the lights on for about an hour longer.
I’m sure that other members will have more to say on this :)
 

wellington

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I agree they don't need to hibernate and I don't hibernate mine.
They do need to be kept at a steady temp if your humibernating them and they need to have an empty gut to safely hibernate.
 

RosemaryDW

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Welcome! As others have said, you can but you don’t have to. Where you live and how you house your tortoise can help you decide which way you want to go. Keeping them awake if they are housed entirely outside may not be realistic, for example.

Fortunately it’s spring so you have some time to think it over while you get used to caring for your Russian(s) in general.
 
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