Even though I have a full page on feeding your Redfoot tortoise, this video goes into more depth around their core diet and why you must be aware of oxalic acid and what it can do to your Redfoot.
Here’s a handy list of the best foods to feed your Redfoot tortoise by Calcium to Phosphorus ratio and the Oxalate level of the food item.
Calcium- Phosphorus and Oxalate food items
We just got a 2 1/2″ red-footed tortoise a few weeks ago, and are trying to keep his diet varied. One of the things the store said to feed him was yams, or squash. I’m assuming we cut them up, but uncooked squash is really hard, can he eat those pieces? I don’t want to cook them if it’s unnecessary, but I don’t want to feed it if it’s too hard for him to bite down on.
Thank you
Linda,
First thing to learn is most people in pet stores know as much about tortoises as you and I do about Mongolian culture. 🙂
Yams are okay once in a blue moon, but otherwise are a lousy food item for Redfoot’s.
Below are two videos from my Redfoot YouTube channel all about their dietary needs – they should help you quite a bit and keep your RF good and healthy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AnHYZzXi9o
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwl_7rOZdiI
Good luck!
Ernie
Hello!
I loved your web site.
I just got a red footed tortoise about 5 inches long (approximately how old could he be?) It’s the first time I own a turtle but I want to give the little one the best of me. I’ve read everything I can about the specie.
The point is it’s been about a week since he arrived but he hasn’t wanted to eat vegetables, I’ve given him roses petals and leaves but the only thing he’s agreed to eat is melon, papaya and chicken. Of course I still have to take the opportunity with other greens, fruits and vegetables. I’m just kinda scared he’s ill or if he’s stressed because I know arriving to a new home must be hard.
I don’t know if i should cook the vegetables i give to him or to give them raw, I’m starting to panic jaja because I know I can’t feed him every day with protein and fruit, he also needs greens and vegetables.
If you could give me some advice I would appreciate it so much!
Thank you