What is the best substrate for red foots inside. I keep hearing all kinds of different things. Right now I am using zoo Med forest floor and I need to reorder, I was wondering if something is better?
Best indoor substrate for red foot tortoises
- Thread starter Kothy
- Start date
Fine grade orchid bark. A 3-4 inch layer is best. Its best because you can keep the lower levels damp for humidity, while the upper layers remain dry-ish to prevent shell rot.
Where do you purchase it? Amazon?
You can also use Cypress mulch. You should be able to find big bags of it at home Depot or Lowes
I went to check on that and they are all out.
I buy it in bulk at local nurseries. Its also called fir bark.
I you can't find it, you can get it from Chewy or Petco online. Its called Repti-Bark.
I am in Connecticut as well. I learned to stock up on a few bags of cypress mulch in the spring before they're gone. You won't find appropriate mulch in larger quantities at a local garden/ hardware supplier this time of year.
Thanks, Good to know I have another CT person
tpence1991
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I use a mix of cypress mulch and coconut fiber.
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I use a mixture of zoo meds Forest floor and Eco earth. I use 2 parts eco earth to 1 part Forest floor. I also use spaghum moss in parts of the enclosure. This mixture holds humidity quite well.
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These are the actual bags I purchase from the Home Depot out in the area where the potted orchids are.
It's cheaper and better than any pet shop product.
You pay double for the same bag with a picture of a tortoise on it!
Make sure you get the plain "potting media" and not the "potting mix". The mix contains other things.
It's cheaper and better than any pet shop product.
You pay double for the same bag with a picture of a tortoise on it!
Make sure you get the plain "potting media" and not the "potting mix". The mix contains other things.
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I would not. That serves no purpose and makes a terrible mess. Orchid bark is better at maintaining a dry surface while the lower layers remain damp for that all important humidity that this species needs. The dry surface helps prevent the shell rot that this species is so prone to. Adding coco coir would bring more dampness to the surface which might be enough to bring about a case of shell rot/fungal infection, and it won't do anything beneficial.
