Russian tortoises can live outdoors, but the enclosure needs to be large . It should be surrounded by a barrier at least 8 in. deep to prevent the tortoise from digging out. The top of the enclosure should bend inwards so that the tortoise can't climb out. They are notorious as escape artists. Build the enclosure so that predators can't enter it. There should be protection from the elements, a place into which the tortoise can retreat. Planting edible plants in the enclosure is a nice touch and good for the tortoise too.
