Eastern Box Turtle
The Eastern Box Turtle is a unique species of land turtle native to the eastern and central United States. It is known for its hinged shell, which allows it to completely close itself inside its shell to protect itself from predators.
The Eastern Box Turtle is a slow-moving and solitary animal that forages for a variety of plants, insects, and fruits. It is a vital part of its ecosystem, as its fruit-eating habits help to disperse seeds.
Eastern Box Turtle
Classification
Reptilia > Testudines > Emydidae > Terrapene > T. carolina
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
4 - 6 inches
(10 - 15 cm)
Average Weight
1 - 2 lbs
(0.5 - 0.9 kg)
Average Life Span
40 - 50 years
Gestation Period
45 - 70 days
Did You Know?
The Eastern Box Turtle can completely withdraw its head, legs, and tail into its domed shell, which acts like a protective box!
They are omnivores, eating a varied diet of insects, berries, mushrooms, and even carrion.
Eastern Box Turtles can live for a very long time, often exceeding 50 years, and some have been known to live over 100 years!
Each Eastern Box Turtle has a unique shell pattern, much like a fingerprint.
They are primarily terrestrial, meaning they live on land, but they enjoy soaking in shallow water.
The sex of an Eastern Box Turtle can sometimes be determined by its eye color: males often have red eyes, while females have brown or yellowish eyes.
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