Eastern box turtles are dwindling. Hibernate in wet woodlands, dry grass, and shallow water. Brown, yellow, orange, and red-domed shells. They're versatile pets, but they still need care.
Box turtles hunt food all day. Box turtles get stressed by handling. Turtles who hide are stressed. Regular encounters, including gentle handling, help them trust you.
Eastern box turtles have different personalities and are gregarious. They recognise their owner's voice and appearance and beg for food when they approach. Some play with a ball.
Outdoor enclosures are best if your climate matches the turtle's. Sunny and shady areas should be included in predator-proof outdoor pens. Clean soil helps these diggers. Turtle-safe plants and materials.
One indoor and one outdoor shallow basin of water are needed for drinking and soaking. Provide hiding spots and loose litter. Fresh water dispensers, weekly garbage removal, daily cleaning.
Eastern box turtles enjoy a sunny region 85 to 88 degrees F and a shaded area 74-80 farenheit. The overnight temperature shouldn't drop below 70F. If you can't do this outside, bring them inside and use a heat light.
Indoor turtles need UVB reptile lamps to replicate sunshine. Even when on, these lightbulbs' UV output declines; replace every six months. Box turtles enjoy humid forest floors. Misting or fogging maintains 70-80% humidity.
Wild box turtles are omnivores. Their confined food should be natural. Feed them once a day, preferably in the morning. Vegetables, fruit, hay, and grass should make up half their diet. Tomatoes, carrots, and red peppers are favourites.
Turtles need more protein as they grow. Fresh water should always be available in a shallow pan. They're not aquatic, but they wade in their water dish. This is why you should check the water for droppings and refresh it as needed.