Russian Tortoise Substrate-what do I use?

[ShellyEllie123]

hi! I've just joined this amazing forum. I have a 2 year old Russian torts, called Torres, at the moment I use Habistat aspen bedding, but I have heard you are supposed to use some sort of soil? Thanks

 

[Tyanna]

You can use many things, but I don't think you should be using Aspen at all.

You can use cypress mulch, top soil, peat moss, coco coir, etc. I prefer cypress mulch with a little mix of peat moss. Anything you use of these, make sure there are no additives etc.

 

[Tom]

I prefer coco coir or orchid bark.

Here is how I like to house them:
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/russian-tortoise-care-sheet.80698/
http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/semi-underground-russian-box.98590/

http://www.tortoiseforum.org/threads/beginner-mistakes.45180/

 

[ShellyEllie123]

Thanks guys, that's really helpful! I have a question though, why do Russian tortoises need soil like substances? thanks again

 

[Tyanna]

They like to burrow, and they hold humidity well. I'm not sure of any other specific reasons, or if there are other reasons. It's also what they would be found in, in their natural habitats.

 

[Yellow Turtle01]

I love coco coir! Orchid bark, repti bark and fir bark are nice, and organic potting soil is a good humitiy holder. The best ting is that most of these can be bought in bulk at garden and hardware stores.