Species Reptiles & AmphibiansEastern Box Turtle

Eastern Box Turtle

Terrapene carolina

CommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina)

The Eastern Box Turtle is a terrestrial turtle with a hinged plastron that allows it to close completely into its shell. Long-lived — individuals may exceed 100 years. Populations are declining due to road mortality and habitat loss.

Habitat
Moist woodlands, forest edges, and meadows
Diet
Berries, mushrooms, earthworms, slugs, and insects
How common
Common

Best time to see a Eastern Box Turtle

The best time to see a Eastern Box Turtle is April–July, when about 69% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 125,597 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Eastern Box Turtle sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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