Is there anything special about the Eastern box turtle?

Is there anything special about the Eastern box turtle?

The eastern box turtle is one of six extant subspecies of the common box turtle. It has a high-domed, rounded, hard upper shell, called a carapace. The vivid, orange and yellow markings on its dark brown shell distinguish it from other box turtles, as do the four toes on its hind feet.

What are some interesting facts about box turtles?

Interesting Box turtle Facts: Box turtle can grow to the size of 8 inches. Box turtle has high domed carapace (upper part of the shell) and hinged plastron (lower part of the shell) which allows almost complete closure of the shell. Most turtles are tan to brown colored and covered with spots, blotches, lines and bars.

Can Eastern box turtles hear?

Their hearing is in the low-frequency 50 to 1,500-hertz range. That’s very limited. A human’s, by comparison, is 20 to 20,000 hertz. So, while they do hear some sounds, scientists speculate their ears may be used mostly for balance.

Are Eastern box turtles fast?

Land turtles such as the box turtle are commonly kept as pets and knowing how fast they can go can help you keep on eye on them if you let them out into your garden, for instance. In an experiment, the box turtle has been clocked as fast as 0.25 mph over a short distance, but a more average walking speed is 0.17 mph.

What does box turtle eat?

These turtles are omnivorous and will eat almost anything, including berries, insects, roots, flowers, eggs, and amphibians. Younger turtles tend to be more carnivorous than adults, hunting in ponds and streams for food. As adults, box turtles primarily feed on land.

Can box turtles swim?

Box turtles can indeed swim. Sometimes they are actually seen swimming in the wild. However, most species are not particularly adept at it, and they often look clumsy. As opposed to the long webbed feet of aquatic species such as cooters and red-eared sliders, box turtles’ feet are usually shorter with individual toes.

Do box turtles sleep a lot?

Turtles sleep anywhere from 1-10 hours a day. The amount of time they sleep is dependent on the species of turtle and environment. Turtles that are more aquatic and can hold their breaths longer usually sleep longer than less aquatic turtles.

Is it legal to keep a box turtle as a pet?

Box turtles are not easy to care for or low-maintenance pets. It is also important to realize that, in most states, it is illegal to take a box turtle from the wild and keep it in captivity. Wild populations are dwindling, so they are protected in most states.

Do box turtles swim?

Do box turtles bite?

They rarely snap, hiss or bite like many other turtles, so children are often allowed to keep one as a pet for a few hours or days. Box turtles will quickly eat a meal of fresh tomatoes, cantaloupe or earthworms, and after we’ve enjoyed observing them for a while, they can be released unharmed back where they were …

Can box turtles bite?

Can box turtles eat bananas?

Fruit should be fed more sparingly than vegetables, since they are often preferred by box turtles over vegetables and tend to be less nutritious. Fruits to offer include apples, pears, bananas (with skin), mango, grapes, star fruit, raisins, peaches, tomato, guava, kiwis, and melons. Fruits that are particularly …

What should I know about eastern box turtles?

Quick Facts about the Eastern Box Turtle Species T. carolina Family Emydidae Care Level Low Temperature 70 – 85 F Temperament Docile, Shy

How often should I take my eastern box turtle to the vet?

Eastern box turtles are a long-term commitment, and routine veterinary care is key to ensuring they live as long as possible in captivity. Even if your turtle appears healthy, visit an exotic animal veterinarian at least once a year for a wellness check.

What kind of shell does a box turtle have?

There are several subspecies of eastern box turtles that have different coloration. Some eastern box turtles have brown shells, while others have olive-brown shells with decorative yellow markings. Most eastern box turtles have yellow markings on dark feet and faces—however, some individuals have no yellow markings at all.

How old does a box turtle have to be to open its shell?

>> When disturbed or frightened, most box turtles will pull in their head and legs and tightly close the shell, remaining hidden until the threat of danger is past. The shell is extremely tough and almost impossible to pry open when closed. Young box turtles do not develop the hinge for closing their shell until they are about 4 to 5 years old.