Care Instructions for Red-Footed Tortoises

Tortoises can be a challenge to care for, but red-footed tortoises are considered a good choice for a beginner. They do require specific care, but generally they are easier to care for than more finicky species. Red-footed tortoises tend to be friendly and outgoing. Their appearance is striking: colorful shells, bright yellow spots on their heads and bright red markings on their legs. When properly cared for, they can live many decades, making them dependable long-term companions.

Things You'll Need

  • Tortoise habitat
  • Substrate, such as peat moss or cypress mulch
  • Full-spectrum lighting
  • Habitat decorations
  • Water dish
  • Hiding area
  • Heat light or heat emitter
  • Various tortoise foods
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide a large habitat either indoors or outdoors, a space of about 6 by 4 feet, or larger. The space can be penned with a wooden-cage type construction or a plastic box-like container. Large glass terrariums are also a possibility, but apply dark or white tape in strips to the glass, so the tortoise does not knock against it constantly.

    • 2

      Fill the bottom of the habitat with a layer of cypress mulch or peat moss. If you're keeping your tortoise indoors, place a full-spectrum light above the habitat to provide necessary vitamins, such as vitamin D.

    • 3

      Place decorations in the habitat. The tortoise can roam about potted plants, grass, hay or dried leaves, or burrow into them and will feel more at home. In an outdoor habitat, include a patch of plants or a muddy puddle.

    • 4

      Place a large water dish in the habitat. This should be shallow and large enough for the tortoise to easily climb completely in and get out.

    • 5

      Provide a hiding area that is cool and away from the light. It can be a large half log, a dense patch of plants or even an enclosed hutch, like a dog house.

    • 6

      Keep the habitat warm and humid. Red-footed tortoises require temperatures of about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Outdoor temperatures can sometimes dip to just above 60 degrees without creating problems. A basking area of 90 degrees should also be provided. Temperatures can be raised by using heat lights or heat emitters. The humidity in the habitat should be about 80 percent and can be raised by misting.

    • 7

      Feed the tortoise leafy foods, such as clover and endive, as well as fruits, such as grapes and mangos, every day or every other day. Avoid feeding too frequently, as overfeeding can cause shell problems. Since red-footed tortoises are carnivorous, provide a small amount of prepared meaty tortoise food, or dog food, once a week or so.

    • 8

      Provide fresh water daily. Clean the habitat of any messes, removing waste and replacing soiled bedding, whenever it gets dirty.