Terrapene carolina bauri (Florida Box Turtle)

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The Florida Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina bauri) is a subspecies of the Common Box Turtle, found primarily in Florida. Known for its striking yellow stripe patterns on a dark shell, this terrestrial turtle thrives in humid environments and is well-adapted to both forests and wetlands.

Other related species

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Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Emydidae
Genus: Terrapene
Species: Terrapene carolina
Subspecies: T. c. bauri

Common Names

Florida Box Turtle

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Identification

Description

The Florida Box Turtle has a high-domed shell with bright yellow streaks on a dark brown or black carapace, giving it a distinctive look. The plastron is hinged, allowing the turtle to close itself completely for protection. Its skin is dark with yellow spots or stripes, and its limbs are relatively long compared to other box turtles.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males typically have red or orange eyes, while females have brown or yellowish eyes. Males also have longer, thicker tails and a more concave plastron, while females have a flatter underside.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

This subspecies is native to the state of Florida, with some populations extending slightly into southern Georgia. It is one of the most commonly encountered terrestrial turtles in the region.

Preferred Habitat

The Florida Box Turtle inhabits a variety of moist environments, including pine flatwoods, hardwood hammocks, marsh edges, and swamps. It prefers areas with dense vegetation and access to shallow water sources.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

It is an opportunistic omnivore, feeding on insects, worms, snails, fungi, fruits, berries, and carrion. It often forages in damp areas after rain.

Predators

Juveniles and eggs are preyed upon by raccoons, foxes, skunks, and birds. Adults have few natural predators due to their strong, protective shell.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Mating occurs mainly in spring and summer, often after heavy rains.

Reproductive Method

Females lay 3-6 eggs in loose soil or leaf litter, with incubation lasting 60-90 days. Hatchlings emerge in late summer or early fall and are highly vulnerable to predation.

Conservation

Extinction Status

The Florida Box Turtle is currently listed as Vulnerable.

Threats

Urban development, road mortality, and illegal collection for the pet market pose significant threats. Habitat fragmentation also impacts movement and breeding success.

Conservation Measures

It is protected under Florida law, making it illegal to collect or sell wild specimens without a permit. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and raising awareness about responsible pet ownership.

Economic Importance

The species has limited economic significance. While it has been collected for the pet trade, strict regulations now limit this practice.

Interesting Facts

  • The Florida Box Turtle is one of the most aquatic box turtles, often seen soaking in shallow water or near wetland areas.
  • It has strong homing instincts and will attempt to return to its home range if relocated.
  • Unlike many turtles, it is known to live for over 50 years in the wild, with some individuals exceeding 80 years.

About Author

Muntaseer Rahman started keeping pet turtles back in 2013. He also owns the largest Turtle & Tortoise Facebook community in Bangladesh. These days he is mostly active on Facebook.