Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I was wondering if it is okay to keep russian tortoises indoors, because I'm building new 4'x2'x2' cages for my bearded dragon and mali uromastyx, and I have an extra one I'm making, so I thought maybe a single russian or maybe a pair of females would be a nice addition. I ask because it seems to me like a lot of people tend to keep tortoises outdoors, but I mostly see this with the larger tortoises.

Yes, you can keep them indoors. 8sq ft of space (the 4x2) is enough for one or two. Try to make the enclosure as interesting as possible with things to climb over and hide under. And keep the light levels bright during the daytime hours.

I like to keep mine outdoors because it's easier (for me) to provide lots of space, the UV is free, the elements can clean the pen (I still pick up the large messes), the humidity levels are high enough that I don't need to soak them, and they just are more active. And for much of the year, when it's time to feed them I just pull plants from the yard and throw them into the pen.

Like Bradtort said, it can be done and successfully.

I have 1.3 in a 2x6 box that I made for their temporary enclosure, while I'm making their outside enclosure.

Just as for all tortoises, they need a good UVB light and a heat source when kept inside.
I like to keep their basking area at about 90 degrees(done with a 100watt ceramic heat emitter), and the cooler portion where they sleep is covered like a cave, and it is about 65 degrees at night.
A small source of water should be provided(that they can't drown in). Their water should be changed when it get's dirty, which will happen quite frequently, sometimes everyday.
They can be fun pets, especially when they recognize you as the "foodbringer".
My torts like romaine lettuce, dandelions, sowthistle, mulberry leaves, rose petals, mustard greens, carrots, and assorted weeds that grow in the yard. They *love* petunia and hibiscus flowers. The key thing with diet is to feed foods that are high in calcium/fiber/nutrients, and low in phosphorus/oxalic acid/protein. Variety in their diet is important too. I don't have access to grape leaves but they are supposed to be good.

here's a cool link to some tortoise foods and nutrient analysis:

Link