The red foot tortoise is an exclusively charming reptile, very popular among regular pet lovers. Their homeland is said to be South America. If proper care is taken into account, these red footed tortoises can make an excellent pet for you. Red footed tortoises are omnivorous, which means they can eat both plants and small insects. They derive the name red footed from the red or orange scales present on their limbs, head and tail. They are generally a medium sized species. The males are larger than the females. They are found in variety of places from dry forests to green grassy lands.Physical Characteristics
- Males are usually larger than females
- Males also have tails that are longer and wider than females
- Red spots present on limbs, tail and head
Size
- A red foot tortoise is described as small to medium in size and develops to an average length of nine to twelve inches long (22.86 to 30.49cm)
Habitat
- They are believed to be native to South America
- It is a rare species
- Present in rain forests, dry thorny forests and forests having temperate climatic conditions
- Also found on grassy lands and man made grasslands
Diet
- Red Footed tortoises are primarily omnivorous
- Although they like to eat grasses, fruits, flowers, and small plants
- Red foots in the wild are fond of eating carrion as well
- As a house pet, it should also be given a calcium rich diet which is great for its shell
- Spinach is also good for the tortoise
Breeding
- Red footed tortoises are capable of generating eggs all year
- In some places seasonal breeding is seen
- The contest starts between the males and the strongest wins to mate with the female
- They are able to produce 3-5 eggs every year
Life Span
- Red footed tortoises have a life expectancy of about 50 to 70 years.
Care
- If you are keeping it as a pet, strong care is required for their safety
- Proper and timely diet should be provided
- Some areas will not allow you to keep one in your home, so better check first
- You must have it checked over by a specialized veterinarian regularly
- Proper living conditions must be maintained
- They like mud ponds and water
Housing
- The size and design of the shelter area required varies depending on the size of the tortoise
- For a younger red foot tortoise an enclosed space equivalent in size and design to that of an aquarium is adequate
- The size of the accommodation will have to be enlarged until the tortoise reaches its maximum size
- The floor should be covered with soil
- It should also given a moist shady place
Keeping pets is a wonderful hobby for many people. For a unique pet, there is no better option than the charming red foot tortoise.