Red Foot Tortoise Care

Welcome to our care sheet for the Red-Footed Tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonaria)! Below, you'll find essential information to ensure the health and well-being of these delightful reptiles.

Enclosure:

Provide a spacious enclosure with both indoor and outdoor areas if possible.
For indoor enclosures, a minimum size of 4 feet by 8 feet is recommended for a single adult tortoise.
Outdoor enclosures should be secure and escape-proof, with access to natural sunlight and shade.

Substrate:

Use a substrate that allows for burrowing and maintains humidity, such as a mix of topsoil, coconut coir, and sphagnum moss.
Provide a substrate depth of at least 6 inches to accommodate burrowing behavior.

Temperature and Lighting:

Maintain a basking area temperature of 85 to 90°F (29 to 32°C) and an ambient temperature of 75 to 85°F (24 to 29°C) in the enclosure.
Use UVB lighting to support calcium metabolism and vitamin D synthesis. Provide a 12-hour day/night cycle.

Humidity:

Maintain humidity levels of 60% to 80% in the enclosure, especially for hatchlings and juveniles.
Use a misting system or spray the enclosure regularly to achieve and maintain appropriate humidity levels.

Diet:

Offer a varied diet consisting of dark, leafy greens (e.g., kale, collard greens, dandelion greens), vegetables, fruits (in moderation), and occasional protein sources like insects or cooked lean meats.
Provide a calcium supplement with vitamin D3 to ensure proper bone health.

Water and Hydration:

Provide a shallow water dish for drinking and soaking. Ensure the water is clean and changed regularly.
Mist the tortoise and the enclosure to provide hydration, especially during warmer periods.

Handling:

Handle Red-Footed Tortoises gently and avoid picking them up by their legs or shell edges.
Allow the tortoise to initiate contact and provide a supportive surface for them to climb onto if they wish to be held.

Behavior and Enrichment:

Red-Footed Tortoises are diurnal and enjoy basking, exploring, and foraging for food.
Provide hiding spots, climbing structures, and a variety of textures in the enclosure to stimulate natural behaviors.

Health Monitoring:

Monitor your tortoise's appetite, weight, shell condition, and overall activity level regularly.
Schedule annual check-ups with a reptile-experienced veterinarian to ensure optimal health and detect any potential issues early.

Legal Considerations:

Before acquiring a Red-Footed Tortoise, research and comply with local and national regulations regarding the ownership of exotic reptiles.

By following these care guidelines, you can provide a suitable and enriching environment for your Red-Footed Tortoise. Responsible ownership and proper care are essential for their long-term health and well-being.