Eastern Box Turtle

Terrapene carolina

Reptile | North America

Animal Info

Our Eastern box turtle came to us from Zoo Atlanta, where he was part of a large breeding program.  We sought out this species as it is a Michigan native and one that is in need of special attention in our state.  Box turtles are heavily impacted by human activities such as collection for the pet trade and car strikes.  We are excited to introduce guests to this charismatic species and show them how to be good stewards of box turtles in their own backyards.

Diet

In the wild:  opportunistic omnivores which eat
a wide variety of plant and animal matter in the wild.
  

At the Zoo: a mixture of Mazuri Freshwater Turtle chow, greens, vegetables, fruit,
insects, and pinkie mice.

Habitat

Moist, forested areas.

Conservation Status

International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) – Species of Special Concern
in Michigan and Vulnerable