Heat rock/ Russian tort

Question
I have a heat rock that i can't use for my kingsnake, or geckos. I was wondering about if i could use a heat rock for my Russian tortoise. why do i see pics of bearded dragons and other lizards w/ a heat rock.
Also lately my russian has been acting a little differently. she has been more active, she's been trying to climb on top of her shelter, and she's been staying up later. she usually goes in her shelter at about 5 or 6pm but now she'll be up at 7 or 8pm.
THANKS

Answer
Hello Brendan,

I honestly don't think a Russian Tortoise would get any benefit from a heat rock.  I would just use a basking light, it would work much better.  
I don't recommend the use of a heat rock for reptiles, because most do not have heat sensors on their bellies & can get burned easily.   
Did you change the lighting for your tortoise lately?  That is odd she has been up later than usual.  Is she getting up at the same time as normal?

Tracie