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african red footed tortoise

22 16:13:47

Question
Hi Mark,
We bought Gracie on Thanksgiving Day 2008, she is a red -footed tortoise . She looks like she is doing well, but last night I noticed her eyes looked very weepy.  Today they are the same. he eats organic mixed lettuce and has a heat lamp and pad?  Could she be getting to dry?  Or what ?? She is about 5 inches long.  I am so worried .
thanks elizabeth

Answer
Good for you!

1. They are from the Amazon of South America, not Africa. We want to provide tropical rain forest conditions.

2. Weeping eyes often indicate that the habitat is too dry and it is dehydrating.

3. Mixed lettuce is a poor diet for Red-foots.

Try these sites for better care ideas:
- http://www.redfoots.com
- http://www.tortoisetrust.org
- http://www.tortoiseforum.org

In general, we want to provide...
- Temps in the 78-88F range. Not a lot warmer
- Gentle, rather dim lighting
- Humidity in the 90% range in at least part of the habitat, 70% or so in most of the rest
- Big space, with plenty of fresh air
- A diet of about 1/2 dark leafy greens, 1/2 fruits- mostly tropical fruits, melons, plums, and strawberries. A meal every week or so of meat- worms, cooked chicken, hard-boiled eggs, etc.
- Supplemental calcium and vitamins, about a pinch a week
- Plenty of fresh water

The water, humidity,and moist foods contribute to keep the animal well-hydrated, and the variety of food helps maintain good health and shell/bone strength.

Give the sites a try and good luck with Gracie!