Size: Up to 8 inches

Life span: 25 + years

Habitat: Southeastern Russia, to eastern Iran, to northwest Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Temperature: Low 90’s F in summer, 40’s F in winter (as long as they can burrow)

Diet: Fresh cut grasses, clover, kale, collard greens, mustard greens, beet or carrot tops,
hibiscus and nasturtium flowers. Some fruit and vegetables are important, but should only make up about 20% of the diet. Grated carrots, squashes, green beans, broccoli, tomatoes, figs, apricots, citrus fruit, cantaloupe. They need high fiber and low protein.

Hibernation: This appears to be important to their health, and should be done properly