Different Kinds of Box Turtles

There are several different species of box turtle available in the pet trade. Four species come from North America: the eastern box turtle, the three-toed box turtle, the Gulf Coast box turtle, and the ornate box turtle. Chinese box turtles and Malayan box turtles are imported for the U.S. turtle trade. American Box Turtles American box turtles are partially aquatic — they spend most of their time on dry land within range of shallow, fresh water. All four of the American box turtle species are usually wild-caught. Box turtles are relatively easy to find throughout the eastern, central, and southwestern … Continue reading

Turtle Care Basics

Generally speaking, turtles aren’t complicated to care for. However, they do need more than just a tank and an occasional feeding! Properly cared for turtles can live for decades — so keep in mind that the tiny terrapin you take home today may be with you for a long time to come. Whether you keep your turtle inside or outside, he needs enough room to live in. His living space needs to have light and shade, moisture, clean water, and a basking lamp — remember that turtles are reptiles and rely on external temperatures to regulate their internal temperatures. Turtles … Continue reading