Keep a moderate humidity level in the enclosure. Additionally, all baby red-footed tortoises raised indoors should have access to a humid hiding area. They need a place where they can snuggle in a natural burrow.
This more humid microclimate helps their shells to grow smoothly and helps in keeping the tortoise hydrated. Tortoises raised without proper humidity dehydrate quickly and form “bumpy” shells as they grow.
Many different substrates can be used for indoor red-footed tortoise enclosures. For all sizes of tortoise, cypress mulch has proven to be a great bedding. It’s absorbent, safe, and relatively low-cost.
Other good options include coconut coir or peat moss. Outdoor enclosures don’t need fancy substrates, provided that the soil is natural and not tainted with any chemicals or fertilizers. We also include a few large, flat rocks in the enclosure. They help file down the tortoises’ nails and give them a clean surface for food.
The needs of redfoot hatchlings and juveniles are akin to those of adults. But they are much more sensitive to drafts and dehydration. Breeders often keep them on dry substrates and feed improperly, which leads to pyramiding at an early age.
Lighting is very important for normal growth and behavior.
These are used extensively in zoos. The 100-watt flood is the most commonly used. While they do put out heat, you need to add a ceramic heat emitter to get the right temperature.
The temperature of an indoor enclosure should be kept between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The optimal range is 80 to 85 degrees. It is okay if the temperature is slightly lower at night. A UVB lamp is important for your overall Redfoot Tortoise care for their long-term health because it simulates natural light.
You should also offer a heat lamp. This lamp should create a warmer area between 85 to 90 degrees. Your redfoot tortoise can bask there.
An outdoor pen is better from a Redfoot Tortoise care perspective. This is true as long as your climate is humid. The temperature should not go below 60 or above 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Babies should be brought inside if the temperature falls below 70. Adults can handle temperatures down to 60 degrees, but they must be brought inside whenever it gets cooler.
The foundation for a healthy redfoot tortoise hatchling diet is high calcium greens, weeds, and flowers. We keep cuttlebone with them at all times. Many feel that low-fat cat food is an important source of “animal” protein. Others use commercial products such as Mazuri tortoise chow.
We trust our vet. They believe it’s better to offer them a diet similar to what they find in nature. Juveniles and adults in outdoor pens readily eat insects like sowbugs, worms, and slugs. Therefore, it makes sense to provide the babies with the same variety.
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