Why do Russian dig?

[Tony the tank]

I'm new to keeping Russian tortoises.. I'm located in Central Florida.. Day temps 70* night temps 40-45*. I keep the Hide heated at around 65* yet they still dig down in the Hide... Is this normal or do they need more heat... Was thinking of picking up a Kane's heat mat.. Just not sure if they will use it? Or dig around it?

Thoughts opinions

 

[dmmj]

Russian gig because they're tortoises, that's all there is to it honestly. I would not recommend a heat mat for a small tortoise overhead heat is the best.

 

[Tom]

They dig for security and to avoid temperature extremes.

 

[Jodie]

I have provided Kane mats for my Russians. They don't use them.