Eastern Box Turtle Care Guide

About Eastern Box Turtles: Eastern box turtles are 4.5-8” long, land-dwelling reptiles with domed shells and a unique hinged plastron that allows them to close up tightly for protection. Males tend to have brighter colors and red irises. They are native to southern Ontario and the eastern U.S., thriving in moist habitats like forests, marshy meadows, and areas near water. With proper care, they can live over 40 years.

Legal Note: Check local laws before getting an eastern box turtle, as they are illegal to keep as pets in some areas.

Setting Up the Enclosure

Minimum Size: 5.5’L x 3’W x 1.5’H (14 sq ft of floor space). Bigger is better!

Indoor vs. Outdoor Housing:

• Outdoor enclosures are best, providing natural sunlight and space.

• Indoor enclosures should be well-equipped if outdoor housing isn’t possible year-round.

• Juveniles (<4”) should be kept indoors for optimal growth.

• Walls should be at least 2' high, buried 12” deep, and covered with mesh to prevent escapes and protect from predators.

Recommended Substrate:

• 60:40 sand/soil mix

• Zoo Med Eco Earth or Reptisoil

• Add 1”+ of leaf litter for enrichment

Temperature & Humidity:

• Basking area: 84-88°F

• Cool zone: 70-75°F

• Humidity: 60-80%

• Night temps can drop to 50°F, but bring turtles inside if winter temps are below 65°F.

Lighting & UVB:

• Daylight: A bright 6500K LED or fluorescent light.

• UVB: Use an Arcadia 6% or Zoo Med ReptiSun 5.0 T5 HO bulb.

• Placement: 13-14” from basking spot (with mesh) or 17-18” (without mesh).

Hydration:

• Provide a shallow water dish for soaking and drinking.

• Change water daily and disinfect weekly.

Feeding Your Turtle

Diet: 50% animal matter, 50% plant matter.

Protein Options:

• Insects (dubia roaches, worms, crickets, beetles, snails)

• Pre-killed chicks/mice (occasionally)

• Cooked egg (small amounts)

Plant Options:

• Greens (dandelion, collards, mustard, kale, endive, romaine)

• Fruits (berries, melons, apples, bananas, persimmons)

• Veggies (sweet potato, squash, tomatoes, cactus pads)

Commercial Diets: Reptilinks, Mazuri Tortoise Diet, Repashy Veggie Burger, Arcadia OmniGold.

Supplements:

• Calcium: Repashy Superveggie or cuttlebone.

• Carotenoids: Repashy Superpig for vibrant coloration.

Handling & Interaction

• Turtles dislike handling; instead, interact by offering food or gentle shell rubs.

• If handling is needed, scoop from below rather than grabbing from above.

• Always wash hands before and after handling.

Enclosure Enrichment:

• Add logs, plants, hiding caves, branches, and leaf litter for stimulation.

• Arrange the environment to encourage movement and exploration.

By following these care guidelines, you can ensure your eastern box turtle stays happy and healthy for decades!