UVB Lighting
Red-footed tortoises actively bask in hot climates and so naturally receive a high dose of UVB from the sun. Their enclosure's UVB should reflect that. ... Tortoises require UVB in order to synthesise vitamin D3 inside their skin.
Do red-footed tortoises need UV light?
Red-footed tortoises must be exposed to UV-b light. However given that Red foots are a rainforest species they may not require such a potent UV-b source as other tortoise species.
How much sunlight does a red-footed tortoise need?
Light cycle: Keep your tortoise at a cycle of 12-14 hours of light per day.