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Red-footed Tortoise
Regenstein Small Mammal-Reptile House
Did You Know?
- These tortoises frequently reach ages of 50 years or more.
- Males and females identify each other using head movements as signals.
- To attract a mate, males fight for dominance. This may include mounting an opponent and flipping them on their back.
Don’t See the Animals?
Why aren’t animals visible at all times? To promote positive animal welfare, we provide animals with choices. They can choose to spend time in areas that are out of public view.
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Overview
Scientific Name: Chelonoidis carbonaria
Class: Reptiles
Diet: Leaves, grasses, fungi, fruits, and flowers (also small invertebrates)
Range: South America, Trinidad, Barbados
Endangered Status: Not Listed
More Information
Red-footed tortoises were named for the red-and-orange markings scattered across their limbs and face. They have bumpy, brownish and green-gray shells and generally black skin. Juveniles have areas of yellow or tan covering each bump. Males are larger and can grow to 13.5 inches. These reptiles live in forests, grasslands, and savannas.
After mating, females bury 5–15 eggs in leaf-litter nests on the forest floor. These eggs are incubated for 150 days.
