Box Turtles

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Box Turtles: A Comprehensive Guide to Care, Varieties, and Natural History 

Box turtles (Terrapene spp.) are popular pets due to their manageable size, unique personalities, and striking appearance. They are often chosen by reptile enthusiasts seeking a hardy terrestrial turtle species. While commonly mistaken for tortoises or confused with water turtles, box turtles have distinct characteristics that set them apart. In this post, we'll explore the natural history of box turtles, the most common varieties found in captivity, how they differ from tortoises and water turtles, basic cage setup and feeding requirements, and common medical problems to watch out for.

Natural History of Box Turtles

Box turtles are native to North America and can be found in various habitats ranging from forests to grasslands. The genus Terrapene includes four main species and several subspecies, with some of the most well-known being the Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina), the Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata), and the Three-toed Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina triunguis).

These turtles are primarily terrestrial, although they are known to wade in shallow water to cool off or hydrate. Box turtles are named for their unique hinged plastron (the bottom part of their shell), which allows them to completely close up, protecting themselves from predators. This characteristic is a key defense mechanism in the wild, allowing them to retreat safely when threatened.

Box turtles are long-lived animals, often living for 40 to 60 years in the wild and sometimes longer in captivity when provided with appropriate care. They are omnivorous, feeding on a varied diet that includes plants, insects, fruits, and small vertebrates.

Common Varieties of Box Turtles in Captivity

Several species and subspecies of box turtles are commonly kept as pets. These include:

1. Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina):

   • Native to the eastern United States, this species is known for its high-domed shell, which is often brown or black with yellow or orange markings.
   • Eastern box turtles are known for their strong homing instinct and should be kept in secure, enriched environments.

2. Three-toed Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina triunguis):

   • Found in the central and southern United States, this subspecies typically has three toes on each hind foot (hence the name).
   • Their shells are usually a muted brown or olive color with fewer markings compared to the Eastern variety.
   • They are more tolerant of damp environments.

3. Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata):

   • Native to the central United States, particularly in grasslands and prairies, the Ornate Box Turtle has a flatter shell with bold yellow or orange lines.
   • This species requires a drier, more arid environment compared to other box turtles.

4. Gulf Coast Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina major):

   • The largest of the box turtle species, native to the Gulf Coast region.
   • Their shells are darker, with a pattern that may be less vibrant than other species.

Differences Between Box Turtles, Water Turtles, and Tortoises

Box turtles are unique in that they are semi-terrestrial, bridging the gap between water turtles and fully terrestrial tortoises. Here are some key differences:

• Water Turtles:

  • Water turtles, such as sliders and painted turtles, have webbed feet and streamlined shells, allowing them to swim efficiently. They spend most of their time in water, only coming onto land to bask or lay eggs.
  • Box turtles, in contrast, have more robust, dome-shaped shells and stumpy, clawed feet suited for terrestrial movement rather than swimming.

• Tortoises:

  • Tortoises are fully terrestrial and are adapted to arid environments. They have thick, elephant-like legs and heavier, dome-shaped shells.
  • Box turtles share the terrestrial nature of tortoises but have more aquatic tendencies, often spending time near water and enjoying a more humid environment than most tortoises.

Basic Cage Setup for Box Turtles

Providing a proper environment for box turtles is crucial to their health and well-being. Here’s how to set up an ideal habitat:

1. Enclosure:

   • For indoor setups, a large terrarium or turtle table is recommended. The enclosure should be at least 4 feet by 2 feet, as box turtles are active and need space to roam.
   • Outdoor enclosures are ideal in climates that match the turtle’s natural habitat, ensuring secure fencing to prevent escape.

2. Substrate:

   • Use a substrate that holds moisture, such as coconut coir, topsoil, or a mix of organic soil and sphagnum moss. This helps maintain the humidity levels box turtles need.
   • Avoid using substrates like sand, gravel, or pine shavings, as these can cause impaction or respiratory issues.

3. Temperature and Humidity:

   • Provide a temperature gradient with a basking area of 85-90°F and a cooler side of around 70-75°F.
   • Humidity levels should be kept between 60-80%, which can be achieved by misting the enclosure regularly or using a shallow water dish.

4. Lighting:

   • Box turtles require UVB lighting to synthesize vitamin D3, which is essential for calcium absorption and shell health. Ensure that UVB lighting is on for 10-12 hours daily.
   • Natural sunlight is the best source of UVB, so outdoor time in a secure, shaded enclosure is highly recommended.

5. Hides and Enrichment:

   • Provide hides, logs, and plants for the turtle to explore and feel secure. Box turtles enjoy burrowing, so a deep layer of substrate is essential.

6. Water:

   • Always provide a shallow water dish large enough for the turtle to soak in. Change the water daily to prevent contamination.

Feeding Box Turtles

Box turtles are omnivores, and a varied diet is crucial for their health. A well-balanced diet includes:

1. Protein Sources:

   • Offer live insects like crickets, mealworms, earthworms, and small amounts of cooked lean meats or pinky mice.
   • They also enjoy snails and slugs, especially in outdoor enclosures.

2. Vegetables:

   • Dark leafy greens like dandelion greens, collard greens, and mustard greens should form the bulk of their plant diet.
   • Avoid feeding spinach or rhubarb as these contain oxalates, which can inhibit calcium absorption.

3. Fruits:

   • Fruits should be given in moderation but can include strawberries, apples, melons, and bananas. Box turtles enjoy berries, which are found in their natural diet.

4. Calcium Supplementation:

   • To prevent metabolic bone disease, dust the turtle's food with a calcium supplement a few times a week, especially if the turtle is not exposed to natural sunlight regularly.

Common Medical Problems in Box Turtles

While box turtles are generally hardy, they can suffer from various medical issues, many of which are preventable with proper care.

1. Respiratory Infections:

   • Symptoms include wheezing, nasal discharge, and lethargy. These infections are often caused by low temperatures or high humidity levels.
   • Treatment includes adjusting the enclosure conditions and seeking veterinary care for possible antibiotic treatment.

2. Shell Rot:

   • This bacterial or fungal infection occurs when the shell is exposed to damp, unsanitary conditions for extended periods.
   • Treatment includes keeping the turtle dry, improving hygiene, and using veterinary-prescribed topical treatments.

3. Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD):

   • Caused by a lack of calcium or vitamin D3, MBD leads to weak, deformed bones and shells.
   • Prevention is key, with a diet rich in calcium and proper UVB lighting or natural sunlight.

4. Parasites:

   • Box turtles, especially those housed outdoors, may become infested with internal or external parasites.
   • Regular veterinary check-ups and fecal exams are recommended to detect and treat parasite infestations.

Conclusion

Box turtles are fascinating and rewarding pets for those willing to invest time and effort into their care. By understanding their natural history, providing a proper habitat, offering a varied diet, and monitoring their health, you can ensure that your box turtle thrives in captivity for many years. Regular veterinary check-ups and attention to enclosure hygiene are essential components of keeping a healthy and happy box turtle.