For the last few years, we have worked to curate our backyard with plants that are safe and edible for our Redfoot tortoise, Charr. Growing plants that can withstand Florida heat (in addition to Florida downpours) and thrive in silty, sandy soil has been very challenging. Growing plants that can survive tortoise trampling and investigation makes our quest even more difficult. However, we have found that tropical hibiscus flowers are a fan favorite of Charr’s. Additionally, prickly pear cactus have been great for the sunny side of the yard. They are able to withstand the brutal afternoon sun, and they are safe for Charr to eat, although he usually just ignores them.
When Charr does find himself craving prickly pear, however, he does not do things halfway. What is the best way to eat a cactus?
Why, starting from the bottom of the cactus and eating straight through it, of course!
Other acceptable ways of eating a cactus include climbing right up the cactus and reaching for a pad that is out of reach, rather than the convenient pad that is at ground level.
Fortunately, prickly pear cactuses are very resilient, and after Charr has decimated one, it quickly begins to grow back.
Well, it tries its best.
The battle to procure a yard that is nice-looking, tortoise-safe and able to withstand tortoise destruction is ongoing. Charr definitely keeps things interesting for us.
