Care of the Box Turtles

The wildlife of a pet goes very differently than captivity. Many people obviate this important detail and let escape aspects that could contribute to the quality of life of the animal.

Something similar happens with the box turtle, a reptile known for its longevity, and who often dies prematurely due to lack of attention. How to care for box turtles? About this we will talk in the present article.

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Species of box turtles

It is known by box turtle to a group of species of this reptile, among which distinguish the genus Cuora or Pyxidea (Asian) and the Terrapene (North American).

These animals have a dome-shaped shell and therefore have a large size. The shell of this specimen is articulated in the lower part so it is possible to close it in the presence of predators. The life expectancy of the box turtle exceeds 40 years.

Erroneously, it is often thought that a box turtle is an animal that barely moves. However, this issue requires enough space to do exercises on a daily basis, stretch your legs and avoid the consequences of being prostrate in a place.

Ideal terrarium

If you want to have a box turtle you must make sure you make the right place for it. To do this you must know that on the floor of your “house” you must place a substrate that can be formed from the orchid bark mixed with peat, or with sand attached to a little soil.

Any of the above substrates must be moistened. And is that when the turtles stay in places too dry the skin is gnawed. Also, remember to clean the substrate weekly.

In the room where the turtle will be, you must recreate two climates. This to make it similar to the natural habitat of the animal. So on one of the sides the temperature should be between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit (would be the place to sunbathe), and in another at 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (cooler space inside the box).

Illumination of the terrarium

During the night all the lights you use to recreate the environment should be turned off, so it is necessary to include alternative sources of heat, heat pads and / or thermal tape. For turtles heat rocks should never be used because they can burn the feet of the turtle.

Box turtles are omnivorous reptiles. Thus, their diet in nature consists of flowers, berries, fungi, slugs, insects, rodents, snakes, birds, eggs, and fish. Taking into account your possibilities you can prepare a menu that is of pleasure and keep it well fed.

Diet of the box turtles

You should know that during the first six years of life the turtle is carnivorous. When they reach adulthood they are mostly herbivores although they are not green leaf lovers.

If you decide on a pet turtle as a pet you should know that they hate being touched constantly. Also, if you have other animals at home, protect them, as they are usually easily injured by dogs and cats.