Eastern Box Turtle
Terrapene carolina
About the Eastern Box Turtle
Geographic Range:
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Emydidae
Genus: Terrapene
Species: carolina
The six subspecies of box turtles have varied shell shapes, patterns and colorations. They have two unifying characteristics: their ability to completely close their shell (concealing and protecting their heads and all appendages) and their two-layered, high-domed carapace, or upper shell. Box turtles have a strong homing instinct and will try to find their way back if removed from their territory for any reason.
You Can Find This Animal in the Animal Discovery Center
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