Box turtles are distinguished members of the family Emydidae, primarily found in North America. They are known for their domed shells and unique hinge on the plastron, allowing them to close their shells completely for protection. Box turtles are primarily terrestrial and prefer moist environments, such as forests and wetlands.
- Box turtles belong to the genus Terrapene within the family Emydidae.
- They have a unique hinged plastron for complete shell closure.
- Prefer moist terrestrial habitats like forests and wetlands.
Terrapene carolina (Common Box Turtle)
Terrapene carolina, or the common box turtle, is widely distributed across the eastern United States. It thrives in forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Known for its vibrant yellow or white markings on the shell, this species is omnivorous, feeding on a diet of plants, insects, and small animals.
- Found throughout the eastern United States.
- Habitat includes forests, grasslands, and wetlands.
- Omnivorous diet consists of plants and small animals.
Terrapene ornata (Ornate Box Turtle)
The ornate box turtle, or Terrapene ornata, is primarily found in the central United States, thriving in grasslands and open habitats. It has a beautifully patterned shell with bold yellow lines and is slightly more tolerant of dry conditions than its common counterpart. This species also exhibits omnivorous feeding behavior.
- Native to the central United States.
- Prefers grasslands and open habitats.
- Distinctive shell with bold yellow patterns.
Terrapene maculata (Spotted Box Turtle)
Terrapene maculata, or the spotted box turtle, is found in the grasslands and forests of the central United States. It gets its name from the small yellow spots on its dark shell. This species prefers wetter areas and, like other box turtles, has an omnivorous diet. It is known for its more rounded shell compared to other species.
- Found in central United States grasslands and forests.
- Characterized by small yellow spots on a dark shell.
- Prefers wetter areas compared to other box turtles.
Terrapene coahuila (Coahuilan Box Turtle)
The Coahuilan box turtle, or Terrapene coahuila, is a critically endangered species native to the marshes of Coahuila, Mexico. Unlike its relatives, it has adapted to a more aquatic lifestyle, though it is still classified as a box turtle. This species has a smooth shell with less distinct patterns and is dependent on wetland habitats for survival.
- Native to the marshes of Coahuila, Mexico.
- Critically endangered due to habitat loss.
- Adapted to a more aquatic lifestyle than other box turtles.