Russian Tortoise Substrate Depth

[TairaBacca]

Hi, I'm relatively new to the forum. My Russian companion seems to love to burrow more nowadays for some odd reason...(I've had him for 4 years). I currently use cypress mulch in my glass terrarium. Can any of you guys recommend a good depth for burrowing? Is cypress mulch not good for burrowing? Should I use a combination of substrates?

-Thanks in advance,
Sheldon

 

[Tom]

Cypress is fine, but I prefer fine grade orchid bark. Or regular yard dirt from outside if yours is of suitable composition. Coco chips will also work.

A depth of at least 3-4" should be good, but some people like to make it deeper.

Glass tanks are done for housing tortoise as long as they are big enough. If you have some sort of custom made monstrous glass tank, then it should be fine, but any normal galls tank is far too small for a 4+ year old russian tortoise. They should have a minimum of 4x8' at that size.

Check these out:
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/beginner-mistakes.45180/
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/russian-tortoise-care-sheet.80698/

 

[TairaBacca]

Thank you. I'll definitely add more substrate.

 

[Alex Z]

Ty for the links. We are in the middle of designing our rt new home. Great info!