eastern box turtle

The Eastern Box Turtle is a relatively small turtle, with a maximum length of 8 inches. The hatchlings are typically 1.2 inches long, while the males are 6 inches long. The females are the largest reaching 8 inches in length. The shell of the turtles or the carapace is a dome-like figure with radiating splotches or streaks of yellow and orange. Eastern box turtles live mostly in very vegetated areas. These areas include shrubby fields, grasslands, swamps, ponds, and in the woods. They are most often found around ponds, creeks, streams, and areas that have had heavy rainfall.

Photo by Ava N.