Winter care depends heavily on the tortoise species. For a tortoise being kept awake indoors, the priority is maintaining its normal heat, UVB, hydration and feeding routine even when your home becomes colder and drier.
Do I need more heat in winter?
Possibly. Measure the enclosure rather than judging by room temperature. Cold weather can change both the warm and cool zones, so verify temperatures with separate thermometers and control supplemental heat appropriately.
Does my tortoise still need UVB in winter?
Yes, if it is awake and housed indoors. Maintain the normal daytime UVB schedule and replace lamps according to manufacturer guidance.
Should my tortoise hibernate or brumate?
Do not assume every tortoise should brumate. Brumation depends on species, age, health and previous care. Some Mediterranean tortoises naturally undergo a winter dormancy period, while other tortoise species should not. Planned brumation should be approached with species-specific guidance and a reptile-veterinary health assessment.
What about humidity?
Indoor heating can dry an enclosure during winter. Measure humidity with a hygrometer and follow the target for your exact species rather than using one humidity level for every tortoise.
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