Pancake Tortoise vs Russian Tortoise

Side-by-side care comparison to help you choose.

Pancake TortoiseRussian Tortoise
DifficultyIntermediateBeginner
Adult size6-7 inches8-10 inches
Lifespan25-50 years40-50+ years
Min enclosure40 gallon breeder / 36x18x18 inches48x24 inches (4x2 feet)
Basking temp95-100°F95-100°F
Humidity40-50%30-50%
UVBYes - T5 HO 10.0 or 12% (Ferguson zone 3-4)Yes - T5 HO 5.0 or 6% (Ferguson zone 2-3)
DietHerbivorous: leafy greens, weeds, and vegetables; supplement with calcium and D3. Feed daily for juveniles, every other day for adults.High-fiber, low-protein; dark leafy greens, hay, weeds; feed daily or every other day.