Box Turtle Habitat & Lighting

Eastern box turtle

North America is home to four species of box turtles, with each species uniquely adapted to survive in its own native habitat. The general care requirements, however, are similar for all four box turtle species.

Outdoor Housing and Habitat

Box turtle eating strawberries

Gardens are perfect habitats for box turtles. However, box turtles will occasionally raid vegetable gardens so it is best to erect a turtle barrier around prized vegetables.

Indoor Housing and Habitat

Turtle in opaque terrarium

Create an indoor box turtle environment with a large opaque Rubbermaid tub or wooden box filled with native plants, flat rocks, soil, leaf litter and an area for swimming.

Water and Feeding

Turtle eating fruits and vegetables

Box turtles are opportunistic omnivores eating half of their diet in fruits and vegetables and the other half in earthworms, mollusks and insects. They require clean warm water with an easy entrance and exit for swimming.

Lighting and Temperature

Turtles warming in the sun

Box turtles need high humidity and at least 12 hours of sunlight. Indoor habitats should provide both cool and warm areas with the temperature ranging from the mid-80s to the low-60s.

Purchasing

Rescued reptiles for adoption

Habitat loss and poaching has placed the box turtle on the endangered list, making it illegal to own in many states. Check with your local fish and wildlife division and purchase only from a licensed breeder or local rescue organization.

References

• "Tortuga Gazette 30(4): 1-3;" U.S. Box Turtles; Michael J. Connor; April 1994
• "Plants & Gardens News Volume 21, Number 2;" Box Turtles in the Garden--Close Encounters of the Reptilian Kind; Janet Marinelli; Summer 2006

Resources

• Aboxturtle.com: North American Box Turtle State Laws