Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Peabody? I had posted earlier about his new habitat. It
has turned really cold (-3 last night). His hide was 60
degrees this morning in spite of running the room heater.
I keep the door closed to keep other pets out.

I did read at one point that cooler temps at night is OK
as long as he can reach his optimal temp during the day.

Should I be concerned?

Thanks again
Linda

linda,

what is peabody? if a russian, then no.

matt

He is a Redfoot tortoise

i have no had a redfoot but i was always told that they should no dope below 65 to 70 and if possible you should not let them go below 75

60 is a bit chilly for a RF. A night time temp of 70 is ideal.

If your animals have any underlying issues (common w/RFs), constant exposure to 60 degree temps will lead to trouble. This temperature is also too low for young animals.

Peabody is 3 years old, 7" shell length and 2 1/2 lbs.
He has never had as much a sniffle and I have had him since
he was a hatchling.

I may try to do some adjustments to see if I can raise
it a little. I am a worry wart

Thanks
Linda

Dear Linda,

I asked this question last year about my redfoots. From what I remember, 60 was the lowest and acceptable as long as they can warm up quickly the next day. My question was specific to the fact that my torts are outside and so long as they get a patch of sun to warm up in during the morning hours it is okay. I am still paranoid and I bring them in around 65 and then let them out in the morning. They seem to be fine with this arrangement.

Allegra

Anyone ever been to Redfoot habitat? Does it ever get 60F there?

But it depends on what type of redfoot you are talking about.
In Paraguay, the giant 'Chaco' form of RF may experience freezing or near freezing temps.
In Bahia, Brazil the cherryhead form can be subjected to temps in the 60s and possibly cooler.
Down here in south Florida I have always left my adult RFs outdoors if the temps are 55 and above---IF it will be sunny in the morning. But I also provide cover for them to hide in too so they are not out in the open.

Thanks

Redfoots can tolerate nighttime temperatures down to 50 degrees F. with no problem. Some of the more hardy ones such as those from Suriman can take even lower temperatures. 50 is the cutoff temp. for mine, that's when I bring them inside.
-----
Tim Madsen

Nobody cares how much you know,
Until they know how much you care.

I came across this information in the reading I have done.
The author said it is a good idea to let them cool down
to about 50 degrees at night. I guess I won't worry so
much as he is not a hatchling and during the day he
has the choice for very warm areas in the enclosure.

Thanks everyone
Linda