Tortoises naturally dig, but if your tortoise is digging more than usual, it can be confusing or even concerning.
In most cases, digging is completely normal behavior. However, it can also be a sign that something in their environment or care setup needs to be adjusted.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Why tortoises dig
- When it’s normal behavior
- When it could be a problem
- How to fix common issues
QUICK ANSWER
Tortoises dig for several reasons, including:
- Temperature regulation
- Nesting behavior
- Seeking shelter
- Stress or discomfort
- Instinctive natural behavior (some species dig more than others)
Most digging is normal, but excessive digging can indicate environmental issues.
Reasons Why Your Tortoise Might Be Digging
1. Natural Instinct
Digging is a natural behavior for tortoises in the wild.
They dig to:
- Create burrows- To escape the sun, predators, and moisture.
- Stay cool- Underground is cooler than above ground temperatures.
- Feel safe- Safe from predators.
Fix: No fix needed — this is normal behavior especially for Russian Tortoises and Greek Tortoises.
2. Temperature Is Too High or Low
Tortoises dig to regulate their body temperature. If its to hot or to cold they will dig down to help.
Fix:
- Adjust basking temps- Make sure to check and if needed move he light closer or further away from the basking spot.
- Provide shaded areas- This is very important outdoors. Tortoises can and will overheat so always have shaded areas when building a outdoor enclosure.
For indoor enclosures always have a UVB bulb with your basking bulbs.
Learn More: Do Tortoises Need UVB Light? & Best UVB light for tortoises.
3. Looking for Shelter
If your tortoise doesn’t feel secure, it may dig to create a hiding spot. If you do not provide a good hide, your tortoise might make one.
Fix:
- Add proper hides- I like to use half longs for smaller species, Dog houses, or a home made Hide box for bigger species like sulcatas.
- Improve enclosure setup- Add more hides, cover, and even plants for a more secure feel.
Substrate can also be added in certain areas to help control where your tortoise burrows.
Learn more: Best Substrate for tortoises.
4. Nesting Behavior (Females)
Female tortoises dig when preparing to lay eggs. Especially in the spring and summer when a lot of species start laying eggs.
Fix:
- Provide nesting area- I like to make the nesting area a blend of sand, soil mix and pack it down pretty tight.
- Ensure proper substrate depth- The depth I go with is 8 inches deep for smaller species. Larger species nest outdoors.
5. Stress or Environment Changes
New enclosure, noise, or handling can cause digging. Digging down makes tortoises feel safe which is how they fight back against stress.
Fix:
- Reduce stress- Try not to handle your tortoise unless needed, Keep the enclosure the same and do not change the enclosure to much. Provide hides, and plants if possible.
- Keep environment stable- Tortoise are creatures of hobbit so Try not to change things to drastic. Don’t move your tortoise from one enclosure to another.
- For indoor enclosures choose a low traffic area where your tortoise wont be bothered all day.
6. Substrate Issues
If the substrate is too hard or unsuitable, tortoises may dig excessively.
Fix:
- Use proper substrate- Depending on the species some will dig more than others.
- Substrate mixes are key when keeping tortoises.
Learn More: Best Substrate for tortoises.
7. Trying to Escape
If enclosure isn’t suitable, tortoises may dig along edges. This behavior is trying to find a way out.. they are smart and will find any weak point in the parameter.
Fix:
- Improve enclosure size- Provide enough space for your tortoise, add water, shade and hides to keep them stress free.
- Block escape routes- Not just block but be sure the parameter of the enclosure is secure and escape proof. If you have any question of a doubt, fix it.
WHEN TO WORRY
Contact a reptile vet if your tortoise:
- Stops eating- Tortoises are pigs and rarely will pass up easy food.
- Becomes lethargic- Tortoise love to nap, but they also love to explore, bask, and look for food. If your tortoise seem lethargic that is not normal.
- Shows unusual behavior- Tortoises will usually have a routine and if you observe enough you will find they run a simple life. If they are breaking their routine and showing unusual behavior contact a vet.
Learn more on Why is your tortoise not eating here.
FAQ
Yes — digging is a natural behavior for most tortoise species.
This may be due to temperature drops or instinctive behavior.
Most species dig, especially burrowing and desert tortoises.
CONCLUSION
Digging is usually a natural and healthy behavior for tortoises. Most the time you should not feel worried or should be worried.
However, if it becomes excessive, it’s important to check their environment, temperature, and overall care setup. Tortoises will stress if any of these parameters are off and if you do not fix the problem it can cause illness over time. Be observant of your tortoise routine and if anything changes keep note of it and take it as a sign.
Diet is one of the most important things to keep your tortoise happy so I organized all the post I made to help:
Continue building your tortoise’s diet: