Eastern Box Turtle
The Eastern Box Turtle boasts a unique hinged shell for protection. Its vivid markings and terrestrial habits make it a fascinating forest dweller, crucial for seed dispersion. This adaptable turtle thrives in diverse habitats, embodying resilience and ecological importance in the eastern U.S.
453.59237 - 907.18474 g
Weight
Brown, Yellow, Black, Orange
Color
10-20 years
Age of Sexual Maturity
Characteristics
Terrapene carolina carolina, commonly known as the Eastern Box Turtle, is a terrestrial turtle native to the eastern United States. It features a high-domed shell with a hinged plastron allowing it to close tightly. Its habitat includes deciduous forests, marshes, and meadows. With a diet of insects, fruits, and vegetation, this turtle plays a crucial role in seed dispersion and pest control.
Distribution Range of the Eastern Box Turtle
Terrapene carolina carolina, commonly known as the Eastern Box Turtle, is native to the eastern United States. Its geographical distribution includes states along the eastern seaboard from Maine to northern Florida and extends westward to Michigan, Illinois, and into parts of Texas.
Eastern Box Turtle's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The Eastern Box Turtle typically inhabits deciduous or mixed forests, often in areas with abundant moisture such as wetlands, marshes, and swamps. It is also found in open fields, grasslands, and even suburban areas, provided there is access to water and dense vegetation for cover.
Ecological Niche
As a terrestrial turtle, the Eastern Box Turtle plays a role in the ecosystem by contributing to seed dispersal and controlling insect populations. It is adapted to a variety of environmental conditions, from relatively dry to very humid areas, and can often be found in microhabitats that offer shelter and food resources. Seasonal variations affect its habitat use, with turtles often moving to more moist areas during hotter months.
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