Box Turtle Care

Box Turtle Care About
Typically shy and found in North America. They can stress easily and require a terrarium type environment. They can hibernate, in the colder climates. Moisture is a must to keep your box turtle both happy and healthy. In the wild they often spend a lot of time buried in mud.
Max Size 6-10 Inches
Life Span 2-8 Years
Habitat
A large aquarium, with plenty of plants, rocks and hiding spots. A shallow bathing pond is a must. You will need to change this water at least once a day.
  • SUBSTRATE: A bark or moss substrate is ideal as it will help to retain the humidity. Keep it deep as they like to bury themselves in it.
  • LIGHTING: Sunlight from a window is fine. If its home is not placed near a window, a low watt UVA/UVB bulb will suffice.
  • TEMPERATURE: 100˚F on the warm end and 70˚F at the cool end. Use an incandescent light or a ceramic heater as a primary heat source.
Diet
Box turtles enjoy a diet of gut loaded crickets and vegetables.
Water  Moisture is key, they will enjoy the occasional complete dip in deeper water; although the “pond” in their habitat can be shallow 1-2 inches deep, let them go swimming once a week. Keep their substrate damp, not wet. A thorough spraying with a spray bottle will do.

Special Notes A box turtle is a good pet, he does not need constant attention. Frequent handling is not recommended. They do enjoy spending time hunting for their bugs. You can enjoy watching them and they aren’t  really that slow.

*As with any pet, it is important that you find a veterinarian that practices in the certified care for your animal. This guide is general in nature and should not be used to diagnose your pet.

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