Box turtle care is slightly different from the type of care an aquatic turtle requires. Though box turtles like the water, they are primarily land turtles and ideally should be kept in outdoor pens that are large enough for the turtle to get exercise, yet small enough so that the owner can maintain it properly.
The Difference Between A Box Turtle And Other Turtles
The American box turtle resembles an armored tank when it decides to withdraw into its shell. A box turtle can withdraw his head, legs and tail and then snap down a moveable hinge on the underside of his shell, closing up completely and leaving no flesh exposed. Unfortunately, this turtle is on the decline due to overselling of pet traders and loss of habitat.
What A Box Turtle Needs
While a box turtle is not considered a pond turtle, it does enjoy the water and should have a pond that is suitable for swimming. If there is a swimming pond in the enclosure, make sure the turtle can climb out of the water easily. Any turtle that is placed in cold water or accidentally climbs into cold water can become incapacitated and drown if it can't get out of the water quickly and easily. If there is a swimming pond, make sure it is in an area of the enclosure that is heated.
If you do not have a swimming pond in the enclosure, place the turtle into a pan of warm water every day to allow the turtle to absorb enough moisture. The water should be deep enough to cover him, but shallow enough that he can extend his head out of the water to breathe. Call it a box turtle spa, if you like, but it is a necessity for the turtle's longevity.
Create A Natural Environment
The ideal housing unit for a box turtle would be an outdoor unit that has one area converted into a heating area. It should also have a pond, should be secure from both domestic and wild animals and should have sufficient space for the turtle to move around. One area should have a mixture of sand, leaf mulch, sphagnum moss and potting soil for the turtle to burrow into as a bedding area. If you'd prefer to purchase bedding material instead of making it yourself, check your local pet shop.
Nail Care
One major element of reptile care involves nail trimming. Like most reptiles, box turtles have sharp claws that require constant grooming. In the wild, this type of grooming takes place as the turtle moves about in its daily schedule looking for food and water. A box turtle that has been domesticated must also have an area where his claws can naturally be whittled down to size. Flat rocks in one area of the enclosure will do the job nicely, especially if you feed your turtle in this area.
Feeding
Box turtles are omnivores and will eat both plants and meat. Feed your turtle insects, worms, fruits and veggies, with protein making up the largest portion of his meal. If you feed your turtle in one area of the pen, it will make cleanup much easier. If your turtle is in an outdoor pen, he will eat insects and worms it finds in its environment, which can give him parasites.
 | Care of pet turtles might not seem like a lot, but they have big needs. To keep your pet turtle lively, pick up proper turtle supplies and housing, make sure you feed your turtle the right foods and always keep the tank clean. |
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