I see a lot of posts and advice lately of people offering fruit only once a week to red foot/yellow foot tortoises. I believe this is based on old and out-dated information. When I acquired my first red foot pair, I was under a similar impression; everyone said to only offer fruit as a treat, and that such sugary, sweet foods were harmful in large amounts. Now, I offer fruit as much as 40% of the diet. Why?
Take a look at this article by tortoise trust. (A lot of people have probably already seen it.) http://www.tortoisetrust.org/articles/feeding_redfoots.html
As the article says, in the wild tortoises consume up to 70% of their diet in fruit during the wet season, and 40% during the dry season. It makes sense; in tropical rain forests, fruit would be in an abundance.
I believe fruit is very good to offer in large amounts (under 50%) as long as there is variety Plum, peaches, papaya, mango, melons, kiwi, passion fruit (if available) are all wonderful choices. Red-foots definitely enjoy their fruit!
Take a look at this article by tortoise trust. (A lot of people have probably already seen it.) http://www.tortoisetrust.org/articles/feeding_redfoots.html
As the article says, in the wild tortoises consume up to 70% of their diet in fruit during the wet season, and 40% during the dry season. It makes sense; in tropical rain forests, fruit would be in an abundance.
I believe fruit is very good to offer in large amounts (under 50%) as long as there is variety Plum, peaches, papaya, mango, melons, kiwi, passion fruit (if available) are all wonderful choices. Red-foots definitely enjoy their fruit!