Decided on a RF

[pnsprrt5863]

Are they very social? should I get two? or would one be okay? and what kind of flowers can I plant in their inclosure? and would it be better to get hatchlings or adults? and is there a local breeder in MO?

 

[StudentoftheReptile]

RE: Desided on a RF

Are they very social?

should I get two? or would one be okay?

I would start out with one if you are new to tortoises.

and what kind of flowers can I plant in their inclosure?

Hibiscus are a popular choice. Rose of Sharon, mulberry, viola, hosta plants are also good options (although not all are necessarily flowers).

and would it be better to get hatchlings or adults?

Usually a hatchling or at least a yearling would be best, so you can start out small and watch it grow. They do get the size of a small watermelon (12-14" shell length). Is the enclosure indoors or outdoors?

 

[pnsprrt5863]

RE: Desided on a RF

Have one for both in and out. and I have had one tortoise, a Russian and a wood turtle in the past. I will get those flowers. Thanks!

 

[Mgridgaway]

RE: Desided on a RF

To answer the question SotR didn't, yes, Redfoots are generally considered one of the more "social" and personable tortoise species. With this said, they live completely fine by themselves. I've found that they're more interesting in pairs or, more often recommended, small herds. While my 2 get along great together, sometimes in a pair one can bully the other. Having 3 reduces instances of bullying.

 

[pnsprrt5863]

RE: Desided on a RF

Okay. I think I will start with one and then get the other two.. If that would be acceptable? or stick with one... Does anyone know of or is a local breeder of red foots in MO?

 

[StudentoftheReptile]

RE: Desided on a RF

Thanks, Matt. I completely forgot to address their social behavior.

 

[Mgridgaway]

RE: Desided on a RF

Okay. I think I will start with one and then get the other two.. If that would be acceptable? or stick with one... Does anyone know of or is a local breeder of red foots in MO?

As long as you setup proper quarantines that should be fine. There are some rare instances where you may have to seperate an aggressive tort that won't calm down. If you get 3, I would be prepared to do that too. Unlikely, but always a possibility.

I don't know any local breeders in MO, but there are plenty of reputable sellers online.

 

[Nixxy]

RE: Desided on a RF

I think I'm going to jump right in on the "Social" question, here...

My Toby is literally, a lap tort. She loves to sit in my lap and watch TV with me. When I get home from work, whether inside or outside, she comes right up to see me.

She loves to be fed by hand, and loves all people.

 

[Mgridgaway]

RE: Desided on a RF

I think I'm going to jump right in on the "Social" question, here...

My Toby is literally, a lap tort. She loves to sit in my lap and watch TV with me. When I get home from work, whether inside or outside, she comes right up to see me.

She loves to be fed by hand, and loves all people.

You mean she doesn't poop on you as soon as she gets comfortable?

Must be an adult redfoot thing

 

[pnsprrt5863]

RE: Desided on a RF

okay. I have more then enough room for them. so it shouldn't be a problem. Thanks!