Red-Footed Tortoise

Chelonoidis carbonaria

The red-footed tortoise, Chelonoidis carbonaria, is a medium-sized tropical tortoise native to much of northern South America and parts of the Caribbean. It has a dark, high-domed shell with pale centers on the scutes and red, orange, or yellow scales on the head and legs. Captive lines include strongly colored cherry-head red-footed tortoises, a locality-associated form from Brazil. In the wild, red-foots use forest edges, savannas, and humid clearings, eating fallen fruit, leaves, flowers, fungi, and occasional carrion or invertebrates.

This species is popular in reptile collections because it is personable and manageable in size, but it is not a dry-desert tortoise. Long-term care depends on warm temperatures, steady humidity, UVB exposure, shallow soaking water, and a varied, calcium-balanced diet. Outdoor pens work well in suitable climates if they are secure against digging, predators, and overheating. Captive-bred animals are strongly preferred, and buyers should plan for decades of care rather than a short-term pet.