I have heard for longest time...tortoises are to eat veggies and little fruit only, then recently I've heard they need meat in their diet to prevent leg paralysis. I have 3 beautiful russians and 2 gorgeous baby redfoots. The reds I have got to eat a little bit of protein very easily, the russians I have not tried yet. But....thanks to loads of research, it is hard to find the real answer on who eats meat and who does not. I have finally found an article that explained...tropical tortoises require some meat for protein, but Mediterranean tortoises should never have meat in their diet. I am so very relieved I have never given any to my russians. I have tried to do a search on here if russians can eat meat, but nothing. So I am hoping this helps a few of us out there to understand the differences a bit more. If anyone else has knowledge or input to this as well, please add. The more we learn about our little family members, the happier they will be.