Red Foot Tortoise

Species: Chelonoidis carbonarius

Captive-bred: Yes

Sex: Pair

Age: Adults

Size: 10–16 Inches

Lifespan: 40–60+ years with proper care

Enclosure: Provide a large enclosure with maximum floor space (indoor closed-top chamber or secure outdoor habitat in warm/humid climates). Provide multiple hides and a shallow, easily accessible water dish for soaking.

Decor: Hides: Place at least two large, opaque hides (caves, wooden half-logs, or cork bark) on opposite sides of the enclosure. Substrate & Leaf Litter: A deep, damp layer of coconut coir or cypress mulch topped with oak/magnolia leaf litter to retain humidity. Basking & Climbing Logs: Smooth, low-lying logs or flat slate stones under the basking spot to file down nails naturally. Plants & Cover: Non-toxic live plants (e.g., Hibiscus, Pothos, Boston Fern) to provide shade, natural humidity, and visual barriers. Soaking Dish: A large, shallow water ramp or saucer embedded flush with the substrate for safe soaking and drinking.

Temperature: Ambient Temp: 80–85°F Basking Spot: 88–90°F Nighttime Temp: Do not allow temperatures to drop below 75°F. Lighting: High-output UVB lighting (10.0 or 12.0) on a 12-hour day/night cycle for indoor setups.

Humidity: Humidity: 70–80%+ relative humidity. Substrate: Moisture-retaining substrate like coconut coir, cypress mulch, or a bio-active mix (e.g., jungle floor substrates) with a leaf litter layer. Keep substrate damp, not waterlogged.

Feeding: Dietary Staples: Nutrient-dense leafy greens (Dandelion greens, Collard greens, Mustard greens, Endive, Escarole, Hibiscus leaves & flowers). Fruits & Protein: Unlike desert tortoises, Red-Foots thrive with ~15% fruit (papaya, mango, berries) and occasional low-fat animal protein or specialty tortoise pellets 1–2 times per month. Feeding Frequency: Offer fresh food 5–7 days per week. Supplements: Dust food with Calcium (with D3 for indoors) 2–3 times per week, plus a multivitamin twice a month. Provide a cuttlebone for self-regulation.