The Eastern Box Turtle is a medium-sized terrestrial turtle with a distinctive domed shell.
Its shell can vary in coloration, usually with dark brown or black markings on a brown or olive background.
The shell is hinged at the bottom, allowing the turtle to completely enclose itself within when threatened.
Their limbs are sturdy and clawed, adapted for digging and climbing.
Adults typically range from 4.5 to 6 inches in length, with females being slightly larger than males.
Known Range:
The Eastern Box Turtle is native to eastern and central United States, ranging from Maine to Florida and west to Michigan and Kansas.
It inhabits a variety of habitats including forests, meadows, and marshy areas.
Diet:
Eastern Box Turtles are omnivorous, feeding on a diverse diet.
They consume a variety of plant matter including fruits, berries, leaves, and flowers.
They also eat insects, earthworms, slugs, snails, and occasionally small vertebrates.
Breeding and Lifecycle:
Eastern Box Turtles reach sexual maturity at around 5 to 7 years of age.
Mating usually occurs in spring or early summer.
Females typically lay eggs in shallow nests dug in sandy soil during early summer.
Clutches usually consist of 3 to 8 eggs.
Incubation period lasts around 2 to 3 months.
Hatchlings emerge from the eggs in late summer or early fall.
Eastern Box Turtles have a long lifespan, often living for several decades in the wild, with some individuals reaching over 100 years old.
Note: Eastern Box Turtles are protected in many states due to declining populations caused by habitat loss, road mortality, and illegal collection for the pet trade. It’s important to respect laws and regulations regarding their protection and conservation.
