The idea of humid conditions for desert dwellers doesn't immediately pop into mind whilst you design an enclosure, but it is very important when it comes to Russian tortoises. Overall, the best situation for most Russians is outdoor keeping, but seeing as how you live in the UK, I can see how this would be a bit difficult with the cold rains. Even so, whenever the day is sunny, allow the tortoise at least some time in the sun, even if for only an hour or two. It's good for overall health, mental and physical.

Anyway, a humid hide box. In the wild, Russians dig deep burrows, and though the steppes of Russia may be dry, these burrows have a high humidity, due firstly to the tortoise's close quartered breathing and secondly due to the natural moisture in the earth from prior rains. In this way, the tortoise loses no water through respiration. Anyway, use of a peat or slightly moist earth in the hidebox usually greatly reduces problems of dehydration. And, as always, when uncertain, give the tortoise a bath. If badly dehydrated, animals often ignore food, choosing to drink for long periods. If you see this behavior, consult with a veterinarian.

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