I just got a red footed tortoise. he is 6 yo's and very social. Can someone please help me figure out a good habitat for him please? I had outdoor carpet in his house but man...his stool was nasty so I have him on newspaper for now but that seems so tacky. Anyhow...any advice would help. Thanks

here is a pic

You just need substrate ideas? Or overall husbandry?

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Mostly subststrate. I think I have the lights right...I have two 75w red heat lights and a UVA/UVB light on for him. He has a little log thing to hide under and a water bowl/bath to get into...
What about humidity? do I need to mist him?
Mostly I can't get over how messy he is with his stool. ICK!

Ive read that cypress mulch is the prefered substrate for this species. He does need to be misted alot because he requires high humidity, which the cypress mulch will help keep up.The basking spot should be 90 deg. The 75w bulb should get it up to 90, if not try the 100w. Good luck with your new baby and congrats!!!!!

What brand of bulb are you using for UV? Many packages are very misleading!
Red foots are cool torts! There used to be a pet shop in my area that had one as a store pet. It was an adult and just wandered around and visited with everyone that came in.

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Merlin,
What's Life Without A Little Magic!

the UV one is the Repti-whatever 7%. This tortoise is super cool - he likes to wander around and will come over, check us out, then leave again. the only thing is my goodness......how can such a small creature have such huge poop!?

Maybe he has parasites? Did you have his poop checked by the vet?
He's a cutie though!

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