IUCN Conservation Status –
Least Concern
Extinct In The Wild
Class: Reptiles
Order: Testudines
Family: Testudinidae
We have three red-footed tortoises here at Paignton Zoo, you can find them in our Tropical Trails exhibit alongside our yellow-footed tortoise.
The habitat of the red-footed tortoise varies by region, but it is typically temperate forest and savannah edges of Central and South American countries like Panama, Venezuela, Ecuador and Brazil.
They eat a mixture of fallen leaves and fruit, plants, flowers, fungi, carrion, worms, snails and slugs.
Interesting facts!
- The red-footed tortoise gets its name from the distinctive red, orange, or yellow scales on its legs, head, and tail. These bright spots are a striking contrast to its dark, domed shell, which is typically brown or black with lighter patches.
- This tortoise has a tall and narrow shell to help squeeze between trees when in the forests. They are also particularly attracted to yellow or red flowers!
- The breeding season starts in April to May, coinciding with the start of the rainy season. The males will battle over females, and during courtship the males cluck, sounding like a chicken. Between July and September, the female may lay several clutches of up to 15 eggs.
Conservation
The red-footed tortoise is currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to habitat destruction, hunting for food, and capture for the pet trade. While they are not immediately at risk of extinction, their populations are declining, particularly in areas of deforestation and human encroachment.