RED FOOTED TORTOISE

RED FOOTED TORTOISE

Full Description

Red-Footed Tortoise Care Guide

Overview

  • Scientific Name: Chelonoidis carbonarius

  • Size: 10–16 inches (some up to 18″)

  • Lifespan: 40–60 years in captivity

  • Temperament: Generally gentle and curious

  • Native Habitat: South America (rainforests, savannas)

Enclosure

Indoor Setup

  • Minimum size: 8 sq ft per tortoise (larger is better)

  • Substrate: Coconut coir, cypress mulch, or organic soil (6″+ depth for burrowing)

  • Hides: Provide at least one humid hide and one dry hide

  • Humidity: 60–80%

  • Temperature:

    • Day: 80–86°F (27–30°C)

    • Basking Spot: 90–95°F (32–35°C)

    • Night: 70–75°F (21–24°C)

  • Lighting: 12 hrs UVB light daily (essential for D3 synthesis & shell health)

  • Ventilation: Important to prevent mold in high-humidity setups

Outdoor Setup (if climate permits)

  • Secure fencing: Tortoises dig and push

  • Shelter: Dry hide + moist microclimate area

  • Shade & sun access: Must regulate their own temp

Diet

Staple Diet

  • 70–80% leafy greens (collards, dandelion, mustard greens, hibiscus leaves)

  • 10–20% fruits (papaya, mango, banana, melon, strawberries)

  • 10% protein (1–2x per week): boiled egg, low-fat dog food, earthworms, cooked chicken (small portions)

  • Avoid: Iceberg lettuce, spinach, cat/dog food with high protein, citrus fruits

Supplements

  • Calcium with D3: 2–3x/week

  • Multivitamin: 1x/week

Hydration

  • Provide shallow water dish (big enough to soak, not drown)

  • Soak juveniles 3–4x/week, adults 1–2x/week for 20–30 minutes

Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Spot-clean daily (feces, old food)

  • Deep clean weekly: refresh substrate, clean water dishes

  • Humidity control via misting or substrate moisture

Health & Signs of Illness

  • Healthy signs: Smooth shell growth, clear eyes, active movement, regular appetite

  • Common Issues:

    • Respiratory infections (signs: wheezing, bubbling nose)

    • Shell rot (soft spots, bad odor)

    • Pyramiding (lumpy shell due to poor humidity/nutrition)

    • Parasites (diarrhea, weight loss)

  • Vet care: Annual checkups; reptile/exotics vet only

Enrichment & Handling

  • Red-foots are intelligent and benefit from:

    • Exploring new safe spaces

    • Puzzle feeding (scattered or buried treats)

  • Handle gently and minimally to reduce stress

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