Red Footed Tortoise Care

Lifespan:

40–50+ years in captivity with proper care.

Sexing:

• Males have longer, thicker tails with vents farther from the base

• Females have shorter, blunter tails with closer-set vents

• Males usually have a concave plastron; females' are flatter

• Males may show more vivid coloration and flared scutes

Enclosure:

Outdoor pens are ideal in warm climates with secure fencing and shaded areas

Indoors: Minimum 6 ft x 4 ft enclosure for adults

Substrate:

A mixture of coconut fiber, cypress mulch, and soil is ideal for creating a naturalistic environment that retains moisture and supports burrowing.

Lighting & Temperature:

• Basking Area: 90-95°F.

• Ambient Temperature: 75-85°F.

• Cool Side: 70-75°F.

  UVB Lighting: Required for calcium metabolism and overall health. Use Exo Terra UVB200 or ZooMed 5..0 bulbs.

Humidity:

60–80% humidity during the day, slightly higher at night. Mist daily; ensure good ventilation to prevent respiratory issues

Food:

• 70% leafy greens (collard, dandelion, hibiscus)

• 20% fruits (papaya, mango, melon, berries)

• 10% protein (earthworms, pinky mice, Mazuri tortoise diet occasionally)

Water:

Provide a shallow water dish, large enough to allow the tortoise to soak.

Supplementation:

• Calcium with D3: Dust food 2-3 times weekly.

• Calcium without D3: Use on alternating days if adequate UVB lighting is provided.

• Multivitamins: Offer once weekly to support overall health

With their charming personalities, beautiful coloration, and manageable size, Red-Footed Tortoises are ideal companions for keepers looking for a long-lived, engaging reptile that thrives with care and interaction.