Three Toe Box Turtle Box turtles can be long-lived pets if maintained properly. It is estimated that their lifespan can reach upwards of 50 years. Shell fading may occur as turtles mature. It is therefore suggested that a diet rich in yellow and red pigmentation be utilized to help reduce this problem. Adult's shell length can reach a 7" diameter. Have the new terrarium completely set up before bringing your new friend home. Additionally, make sure your new family member is allowed enough time to adjust to its new home before any attempt to handle it.

Feeding Box turtles are omnivorous (eat both plant and animal matter). Therefore their diet should include vegetables and fruit plus insects and prepared foods such as canned land turtle food. A good rule of thumb for feeding box turtles is 60%-70% plant matter and 30%-40% animal matter. Suggested foods: romaine or green leaf lettuce, green peppers, tomatoes, cooked sweet potatoes, squash, cauliflower, thawed frozen mixed vegetables, berries, cherries, bananas, plums, earthworms, crickets, mealworms, and superworms. When feeding fruits & vegetables, use two vegetables to every fruit per meal. Red fruits are great for shy eaters as turtles are naturally attracted to the color red. Feeding turtles every other day is suggested as well as dusting food with vitamin/calcium powder every other feeding. Always remove food four hours after it is offered to prevent spoilage. A shallow water dish is recommended to allow box turtle to soak without the risk of drowning. Make sure that the water dish is easy to enter and exit.

Housing Individual turtles can be maintained in a 30 to 40 gallon terrarium. A screen lid is essential for proper air exchange. For multiple pets, increase habitat size accordingly to ensure each turtle has plenty of space to move about and not interfere with tankmates. An undertank heater should be placed on the same end of the tank used for basking. A shelter for hiding is necessary, especially if multiple pets are in the same enclosure. Misting the habitat once or twice daily will help maintain proper humidity levels. Ideal daytime temperature for these box turtles should range between 70 and 80 degrees. Additionally, a basking area should maintain a local temperature of 90 to 95 degrees. Night time temperature should remain between 50 and 70 degrees.

The humidity for box turtles should be kept at or near 65 percent. All box turtles require ultraviolet lighting to maintain good health and shell structure. Ultraviolet lighting is recommended for 12 hours per day. The use of a timer will help to maintain an accurate lighting schedule. For box turtle terrariums, 2" to 3" of Bed-A-Beast is recommended to encourage natural burrowing instinct. The substrate should be kept moist, but changed regularly to avoid bacterial growth.