Reptile · Tortoise
Yellow-footed tortoise care guide
Chelonoidis denticulatus
The yellow-footed tortoise is a advanced-level tortoise from Amazon basin of South America. Adults reach 40–70 cm shell and live 50+ years in captivity. Grows much larger than the red-foot and needs a shaded, very humid room-sized enclosure.
- Enclosure 240 × 120 × 60 cm
- Temp Ambient 26–29°C, basking 30–32°C
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a yellow-footed tortoise cost in Canada?
Yellow-footed tortoise quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 40–70 cm shell
- Lifespan
- 50+ years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Amazon basin of South America
- Minimum enclosure
- 240 × 120 × 60 cm (94 × 47 × 24 in, ≈ 457 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Ambient 26–29°C, basking 30–32°C
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Omnivore – leafy greens, fruit, mushrooms, flowers, occasional protein
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Yellow-footed tortoise enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 240 × 120 × 60 cm (94 × 47 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix15 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm
Deep, moist soil is what holds humidity in this build – much better than thin bedding, especially through Canadian winters.
Temperature: Ambient 26–29°C, basking 30–32°C. Humidity: 70–90%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a yellow-footed tortoise eat?
Omnivore – leafy greens, fruit, mushrooms, flowers, occasional protein. Feed greens and fruit daily with a small protein item every 1–2 weeks.
Handling, temperament & health
Shy forest tortoise; tolerates gentle handling.
Health watch: Dehydration, pyramiding and respiratory infections in dry or cold housing.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check warm and cool side temperatures and humidity.
- Refresh the water bowl.
Weekly
- Mist or pour water into the substrate to keep the lower layers moist.
- Spot-clean large waste promptly.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Stir and fluff compacted topsoil around hides.
- Check heat sources and thermostat calibration.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a yellow-footed tortoise bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (240 × 120 × 60 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 15 cm
Cypress Substrate
Optional top layer (cypress)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Tubes
Secure hides at both ends of the gradient
Malaysian Drift Wood
Sturdy enrichment for heavy-bodied animals
Yellow-footed tortoise FAQ
Is the yellow-footed tortoise good for beginners?
The yellow-footed tortoise is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Shy forest tortoise; tolerates gentle handling.
What size enclosure does a yellow-footed tortoise need?
At least 240 × 120 × 60 cm (about 94 × 47 × 24 inches, roughly 457 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a yellow-footed tortoise cost in Canada?
Typically $500–1000 CAD to buy, about $3060–5080 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $500–900 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a yellow-footed tortoise need?
Temperature: Ambient 26–29°C, basking 30–32°C. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a yellow-footed tortoise eat?
Omnivore – leafy greens, fruit, mushrooms, flowers, occasional protein. Feed greens and fruit daily with a small protein item every 1–2 weeks.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.