A proper hiding area is an often-underestimated feature of a natural terrarium. Without a safe spot to hide and sleep reptiles and amphibians will easily develop stress that will effect their activity and appetite. Hide-outs often also provide a shelter or a cooler/warmer area in the terrarium. We often moisten the area and use a small wattage heat mat under these to increase humidity within the hide and create a "humid hide," well documented to prevent pyramiding in tortoises and help small tortoises maintain hydration.
Note: The entry doors of these hideboxes are rather small, and these are best used by baby tortoises. Tortoises over about 4" length will not easily fit in and out of the larger size hide.