Building an outdoor Tortoise Enclosure

I've decided to build a space outside in my backyard for my tortoise. Keeping a red-foot tortoise outside where I live requires planning and attention to their specific needs due to the climate differences of their native habitat.

With my tortoise enclosure, I need to consider both temperature and humidity. Red-footed tortoises thrive in temperatures ranging from 75-85°F (24-29°C) during the day, with a nighttime drop to around 70°F (21°C). Because of these temperature requirements, I won't be keeping my tortoise outside in the seasons of fall and winter. Some days in spring will also be too cold, especially at night. I will also bring my tortoise inside at night. These tortoises also require a humid environment, ideally between 70-80%. I will use substrate and plants as well as spaying down the enclosure to keep it humid.

It is very important to ensure the tortoise is able to self-regulate temperate by being able to move into cooler shady areas and warmer areas.

Outdoor Housing Requirements to consider