Red-footed tortoises are a species of medium-sized tortoise native to Central and South America. They have a bumpy, concave shell which is usually black, gray or brown in color. Males are slightly larger than females, growing up to 13.5 inches in length while females grow up to 11.5 inches in length.
These tortoises are primarily herbivores but have been known to eat small amounts of animal matter such as insects and carrion. They inhabit temperate forests, rainforests, savannahs and dry forests and need a hot, humid climate to survive. Red-footed tortoises are most active during the day and immediately after rain and wander in search of food sources such as grasses, flowers, fruits and vegetables.
These amazing creatures can live for up to 50 years in captivity with proper care! They make great pets as they are relatively easy to care for and require minimal space compared to other species of tortoise.
Sources
- https://explore.berkshiremuseum.org/digital-archive/fact-sheet/tort-ally-cool-facts-about-red-footed-tortoises
- https://animalia.bio/red-footed-tortoise
- https://a-z-animals.com/animals/red-footed-tortoise/
