Baby Red Foot Tortoise

Question
Hi I know this may sound a Little weird but I jus want to make sure my baby is ok. I have a 2 month old red foot tortoise. I have had him for almost a 5days now. He is eating and drinking but I havent seen him use the bathroom. Is this normal? What does it look like? Thanks

Answer
Hi Kourtnee, The appearance and frequency of the stools is an important indication of health so your question is not weird at all! Redfoot droppings are soft but formed and usually a greenish brown colour. They may be disappearing into the bedding. Baby tortoises also practice coprophagy (eating stools) which is normal for them. It helps to establish their normal gut flora. I soak my baby redfoots in a little tepid water once a day and that is when they tend to defecate but I certainly don't see one everyday from them or from the adults. I don't think you have anything to worry about.