Eastern Box Turtle
Terrapene carolina carolina
Conservation Status:
Photographed by Aleigha Procaccini in Newtown
Description
Box turtles grow four to seven inches long. They have a highly domed upper shell that is brown or black in color with orange or yellow blotching or rays on each scute. Their skin can range from gray to yellow, often with yellow and orange patterns. They have very sharp beaks. Males have red eyes while females have brown eyes, making it an easy way to tell them apart.
Habitat
This species can be found in uplands during cooler months, such as fields and woodlands, and move to wetlands in the warmer months. It is common for them to stay at the same home site for many years.
Behavior
Box turtles are terrestrial, not often being seen swimming. They are omnivores, and eat almost any plant or animal that is available to them and that will fit into their mouth. They rely on camouflage to avoid predators. These turtles are docile and will rarely bite. They lay three to ten eggs in May and June in moist soil.
Range
Present
