Russian Tortoise Peeling

[Love our Russian]

my son found a Russian tortoise about 2 months, an adult female. We have her in 40 gallon tank, we soak her once a week and try to take her outside a few times a week. The humidity in the tank is ranges from 50% to 70% pending on the day, her basking light is 90-100 and we have a UV light. the substrate is a mixture of compressed coconut fiber and zoo med bark 3" to 4" so she can dig(we so added leaves from outside to dig under). her diet of dandelion leaves, kale, collard greens, mix greens (picking out not of the spinach),and chard. Her head and legs are peeling what should we do, is that normal? any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

[Eduardo Hernandez]

In an open topped tank like that, I don’t think your humidity is that high. She looks a bit dry to me, but tortoises do peel at times. Don’t peel her skin off, just give her more soaks and make sure she’s well hydrated. On a more important note, a 40 gallon tank is not big enough for an adult Russian, especially not a female. It’s okay for a hatchling, but nothing bigger unfortunately.

We tend to recommend 8 foot by 4 foot enclosures for Russians. They’re small, but need a lot of space to help with digestion and muscle development. An outdoor enclosure best, but mainly indoors in a big enough enclosure is good enough.

 

[Love our Russian]

It gets so humid here in Pennsylvania in the summer(one week 90% all week). So, looks like a bigger is in order and more soaks. Thank you.

 

[Maitaimommy]

Love the last posted pic of her. Looks like she's smiling!! It amazes me just how much space a small russian tortoise needs.