The Horsefield tortoise—also known as the Russian tortoise (Testudo horsfieldii)—is a small, hardy species that’s popular as a pet due to its manageable size and friendly nature. But if you’re thinking of getting one, or already have a young tortoise, you might be wondering:
How big does a Horsefield tortoise get?
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
🐢 Average Adult Size of a Horsefield Tortoise
- Length:
📏 13 to 20 cm (5 to 8 inches) - Weight:
⚖️ 700g to 1.5 kg (1.5 to 3.3 lbs)
📌 Size Differences by Sex:
- Females tend to be larger than males (up to 20 cm)
- Males are usually smaller and lighter (around 13–15 cm)
🐣 Growth Rate
Horsefield tortoises grow slowly and typically reach full adult size by around 8 to 10 years old, depending on:
- Diet and nutrition
- UVB exposure and heating
- Space to move and exercise
- Hibernation (which slows growth)
📏 Size Compared to Other Tortoises
| Species | Adult Size (Length) |
|---|---|
| Horsefield | 13–20 cm (5–8 in) |
| Hermann’s Tortoise | 15–20 cm (6–8 in) |
| Sulcata Tortoise | 60–80 cm (24–32 in) |
| Leopard Tortoise | 40–50 cm (16–20 in) |
👉 Horsefields are smaller than many other species—ideal for indoor/outdoor enclosures.
🏡 How Much Space Do They Need?
Even though they’re small, Horsefield tortoises are very active and need space to roam.
- Minimum indoor enclosure: 120 × 60 cm (4 × 2 feet)
- Outdoor pen: As large as possible, ideally 2 m² or more
FAQs About Horsefield Tortoise Size
🐢 How big is a hatchling?
Just 4–5 cm (1.5–2 inches) long—tiny and cute!
🐢 Do Horsefield tortoises grow their whole life?
They grow mainly in their first 10 years. After that, growth slows, but they may still gain weight.
🐢 How can I tell if mine is fully grown?
If it’s over 8 years old and measures 15–20 cm, it’s likely full size.
🐢 Can a Horsefield outgrow its enclosure?
Yes—especially if the enclosure is too small. They need plenty of room to explore and stay healthy.
Conclusion
A fully grown Horsefield tortoise reaches about 13–20 cm (5–8 inches) in length and can weigh up to 1.5 kg. They’re small, sturdy, and active—making them a great tortoise species for first-time keepers. Give them enough space, a proper diet, and good care, and they’ll thrive for decades—sometimes living 40–60 years or more!
Also Check:
• How Big Do Hermann Tortoises Get?
• How Big Do Hermann Tortoises Grow?
• How Big Does a Bearded Dragon Grow?
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