Your tort won't overheat unless it's in the direct sun for a long period of time. They need to have a hide box or some shade in part of the box. Don't get me wrong, direct sunlight is good for them, but just like us, it can harm them. Torts aren't as prone to damage from overbasking as aquatic turtles are but it can still dehydrate them. RES can live out of the water for several days if not more, technically. They need a water source for drinking at the least, but they do need to soak fairly frequently to remain hydrated. Swimming is very important exercise and many RES won't eat unless the food is in the water. They are semi-aquatic turtles. They bask several hours a day but the rest of the time they live in the water.
stars are not for begginers, they cost a lot and they get 11 inches, if thats what your asking, tortoise need a big enclosure adult russians hermanns, need like 8x4 foot, and bigger as tortoise get bigger.
