Russian tortoises (Testudo horsfieldii) are a small tortoise species that range from 6-10 inches in size. They are sexually dimorphic, with females usually growing larger than males. Males tails are longer and thinner and held to the side, while females are shorter and stubbier and typically are held out behind them. In the wild, Russians range from China to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in areas of dry arid habitat.

Redfoot tortoises (Geochelone carbonaria) are a medium-sized species that typically range from 10-14 inches. They are found throughout extreme southern Central America and central and northern South America including the countries of Panama, Columbia, Venezuela, Guyana, Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. They are sexually dimorphic, with males growing to a larger length and greater weight than females. Both sexes, however, develop a unique mid-body constriction that, from the top, gives the tortoise somewhat of an hourglass shape. The "hourglass" figure is much more developed in males, however. In the wild they are found in both dry grassland and humid forest habitats, although it is not known which is their preferred type.

For more information on these species please visit Joe Heinen's Russian and Redfoot tortoise sites. They contain invaluable information on hatchling care, edible/recommended plant species, indoor/outdoor habitat setups, and adult sex identification and breeding.

For a wide variety of quality foods and supplies for tortoises and other reptiles please visit Carolina Pet Supply.