Eastern Box Turtle

Eastern Box Turtle

Terrapene carolina carolina

Least Concern

Quick Facts

Kingdom: Animalia
Abundance: Common
Habitat: Forest
Active Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall
Activity: Diurnal (Active during day)
Lifespan: 40 - 60 years

Medium terrestrial turtle with a high-domed carapace and a hinged plastron that allows it to close tightly. Color/pattern highly variable (often dark with yellow/orange markings). Occupies forests and edges; slow-moving; frequently seen after rains.

Diet

Omnivorous - fruit, fungi, insects, worms, and other small prey.

Activity Pattern

Diurnal (Active during day)
Kingdom: Animalia
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Phylum: Chordata
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Class: Reptilia
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Order: Testudines
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Family: Emydidae
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Genus: Terrapene
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Species: T. carolina

Scientific Name

Terrapene carolina carolina
Breeding Season
May - October
Nesting Season
May - July
Migration Pattern
No migration
Lifespan
40 - 60 years

Tracks or Signs

Sightings on forest floor/edges; partially buried individuals; eggs/nests in loose soil.

Behavior

Solitary; strong site fidelity/home range

Ecological Role

Omnivore that can aid seed dispersal (via fruit consumption) and contributes to forest-floor nutrient cycling.

Active Seasons

Spring Summer Fall

Activity Pattern

Diurnal (Active during day)

Habitat Types

Forest

Geographic Distribution

Broad distribution across much of the eastern U.S.

Local Abundance

Common

Range Map

Range map

Conservation Status

Least Concern

This species is widespread and abundant. No immediate threat to survival.

Threats & Impacts

Road mortality, habitat fragmentation, illegal collection/pet trade pressures in many regions

How You Can Help

  • Report sightings to contribute to population monitoring
  • Support habitat conservation efforts
  • Follow guidelines when observing wildlife
No field notes or observations available for this species.

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