Red-Footed Tortoise
Scientific name: Chelonoidis Carbonaria
Red-footed tortoises can be recognised by their dark shell, with yellow markings. They are medium sized tortoises that get their name from the red, orange or yellow scales which are visible on their legs, as well as their heads and tails. The red-footed tortoise is polygynous (having more than one female mate). Males produce sounds and calls to attract potential mates and ward off competitors. Males often move their heads in a bobbing motion prior to fighting. If a male flips his competitor on to his back he wins the fight and gains access to the female.
-
We live...
In the Reptile House, next to the meerkat enclosure.
-
Size Fact
Males are larger than females, easily reaching 9kg!
-
Food Fact
The meat from the red-footed tortoise is considered a delicacy by many.
-
Fun Fact
Calls consist of "clucks" similar to those produced by chickens!
Adopt Me
You can support our conservation efforts and help with the costs of keeping rare and wonderful zoo animals by adopting a Giant Tortoise. Adopt a Giant Tortoise for yourself or as a gift.
You might also like...
-
![Meerkats]()
Meerkat Keeper Talk
Come along and learn about our mob of Meerkats from our experienced animal keepers.
Find out more
-
![Zoe And Falcon]()
Bird of Prey Flying Display
Watch our majestic birds of prey in our new Wings of Wonder flying display.
Find out more
-
![Andean Bear]()
Bear Keeper Talk
Learn about our Spectacled bears from our experts and find out what it is like to be a Spectacled bear keeper.
Find out more
-
![African Elephant - Shaka 2]()
Elephant Keeper Talk
Did you know Elephants are the largest land animals on Earth? Come and join our Elephant Keepers and learn about our bulls.
Find out more
