Wildlife At Risk: Eastern Box Turtle

By: Ashley Rogers, Former NJSOC Education Intern

Throughout the next few months, we are excited to showcase animals located around the NJSOC to raise awareness about conserving at-risk species and ways you could make a difference.

For our first species, we are proud to feature the Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina). This turtle has a special place in our hearts because our Ambassador Animal, Mo, is a member of the species and was rescued by wildlife rehabilitators after being taken illegally from the wild. He now serves as an educational animal for countless students. To learn more, read our Meet NJSOC’s Ambassador Animal! blog series.

Box Turtles are a terrestrial reptile that resides in forested areas, typically near water. This species consumes plants and animals, such as amphibians, mushrooms, and berries, takes up to 20 years to mature, and has a life span of 25-100 years. If threatened, they completely conceal themselves in their shell, a defense mechanism unique to Box Turtles.

Unfortunately, these turtles are of special concern in New Jersey from factors like habitat degradation, vehicular collisions, and the pet trade. To help protect them, organize clean-ups, support wildlife corridors, and educate others about Box Turtles. For more information, check out the National Wildlife Federation and the Smithsonian Zoo.

References:

https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/eastern-box-turtle

https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Reptiles/Eastern-Box-Turtle