In pet trade, there are actually four North American species of box turtle namely Eastern Box Turtle, Three-toed Box Turtle, Gulf Coast box turtle, and the Ornate box turtle. There are some species also that are being imported for the pet trade such as the Chinese box turtle and the Malayan box turtle. Almost all of these box turtles have been caught in the wild.
Box turtles are partially aquatic animals unlike the other type of turtles which spend much of their time swimming under water. These Terrapene spp. must have a dry land and water range inside its enclosure for them to do their normal activities just like in the wild.
The American box turtles are found nearly in most place in America from eastern to southwestern part down to the Northern parts of Mexico. These semi-aquatic creatures spend most of their time in woody grassland areas and burrows their selves when sleeping. Hatchling's size is about 1 inches and will grow up to 6 or 8 inches depending upon the specie.
If you are kind of interested on having a box turtle, you may want to know its basic needs taking the fact that by owning them, you will shoulder a great responsibility. First, you'll need to select a great box turtle by handling them if its weight is appropriate with its size. The eyes must be clear and of course the shells are firm with no signs of false colors. After selecting a good turtle, you'll need to provide your new pet with proper housing. The enclosure must be appropriate with the size of your pet, preferably at least 36" x 12". Inside the enclosure, the substrate must be 2-3 inches in deep, use some plain sterile potting soil. Since box turtles are semi-aquatic animal, a water area can be provided with a dish or pan big enough for your pet to soak in. Turtles need extra heat and you can give them with the use of two methods, by having a underneath Heating Pad and incandescent light. Temperature gradient must be 85-88F during the day while 70-75F during the night for American box turtles. As for their diet, they are best fed with plant matter and animal .products in early mornings. Juveniles must be fed everyday while the adults every other day.
Turtles are not suitable as pet for children. Box turtles are becoming scarce so help them propagate and extend their existence so that the future generations can still see these wonderful creatures.
Box Turtles are the best pets. Thanks for reading my article Ari Flagle
