The decision between these two animals hinges on many things. Firstly, where do you live? If you live in Florida, then redfoots would be a good idea, russians not so good (lest you wish to be creative and put a lot of work into an indoor setup). If you live in Arizona, then a redfoot may not be such a good idea. Tortoises should spend as much of their time as possible outdoors, and depending upon the weather, this can affect your decision regarding which tortoise species to acquire.

Keeping tortoises is not very easy, even if you have only one or two animals. They have feeding requirements that are rather specialized. For instance, regardless of species, you will have to have a good source of dandelions, thistles, and other herbaceous weeds to match much of the natural diet of these creatures. With redfoots, a large crop of hibiscus, althea, grape, and other assorted fruit trees do well in an enclosure, whereas russians benefit greatly from the inclusion of mulberry, grape, petunia, geranium, and assorted grasses and weeds (the rougher stuff). Keeping tortoises requires either possession of a green thumb or association with someone or some organization that does.

Should you keep a russian, you will also have to make proper and safe accomodations for hibernation. This is a plus, as tortoise upkeep is significantly reduced for several months. However, one must be prepared for the initial expense of the hibernation refridgerator.

Also, consider how long these animals live. You will bequeath this animal unto your grandchildren, if you're lucky. Redfoots have been known to live around fifty years, and russians live much longer.

T.G.

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