Box Turtle Care Sheet

Box Turtle (Terrapene sp.) Overview

Box turtles, belonging to the pond turtle family, come in various species, including Eastern, Gulf Coast, Florida, Mexican, Three-toed, Ornate, Desert, Yucatan, and Spotted.

Originating from North America, particularly the United States, different states honor various species as their state reptile.

Physical Characteristics and Behavior

These terrestrial turtles exhibit dome-shaped shells, with colors and patterns varying among species. Despite differences in appearance, their behavior remains consistent across varieties.

Adult box turtles typically reach shell lengths of 4-7 inches, with females generally larger than males. Both babies and adults are active throughout the day, recognizing their keeper’s voice and appearance, often forming bonds through food offerings.

Enclosure Requirements

Proper enclosure setup is crucial, including hide spots, water dishes, and basking spots with UVB lighting for shell and bone health. Maintaining humidity is vital to prevent eye issues.

Heating & Humidity

Maintaining humidity is essential for their health, while UVB lighting is necessary for proper growth.

Feeding Habits

Dietary preferences vary with age, with babies being more carnivorous and adults consuming a mix of plant and animal material, including leafy greens, fruits, and insects.

Breeding and Price Range

Box turtles breed naturally, with one male typically servicing multiple females. Eggs hatch within two to three months. Prices for captive-bred turtles range from $74.99 to $124.99, spanning from babies to adults.

Species Notes and Summary

These beloved turtles can live over 100 years, making them popular pets due to their longevity, friendly demeanor, and success in captivity.