Terrapene carolina major (Gulf Coast Box Turtle)

The Gulf Coast Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina major) is the largest subspecies of the Common Box Turtle, known for its robust size and highly domed shell. Found along the Gulf of Mexico’s coastal regions, it thrives in humid environments and exhibits strong terrestrial tendencies while occasionally wading in shallow waters.

Scientific Classification

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

Common Names

Gulf Coast Box Turtle

Identification

Description

The Gulf Coast Box Turtle is the largest of all Terrapene carolina subspecies, with an adult carapace length reaching up to 8 inches. Its shell is dark brown to black with yellow or orange streaks, often forming intricate patterns. The plastron is typically dark, sometimes with lighter markings. The skin is dark with yellow or orange spots on the head and limbs.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males have red or bright orange eyes, while females have brown or yellowish eyes. Males also tend to have a concave plastron, longer, thicker tails, and more developed hind leg musculature.

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

This subspecies is found along the Gulf of Mexico’s coastal regions, primarily in the southeastern United States, including Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and the Florida Panhandle.

Preferred Habitat

The Gulf Coast Box Turtle thrives in humid, forested environments near wetlands, swamps, and marshes. It prefers areas with ample vegetation and moist soil, often seeking out shallow pools or damp leaf litter for hydration.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

It is an opportunistic omnivore, consuming a wide variety of foods, including fruits, mushrooms, earthworms, insects, snails, amphibians, and carrion. Its diet shifts based on seasonal availability.

Predators

Natural predators include raccoons, skunks, foxes, large birds, and snakes. Hatchlings and juveniles are at higher risk due to their softer shells.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Mating occurs primarily in spring and early summer, with nesting typically taking place in late spring to early summer.

Reproductive Method

Females lay 3-8 eggs in a shallow nest dug in sandy or loamy soil. Incubation lasts about 70-90 days, with hatchlings emerging in late summer or early fall.

Conservation

Extinction Status

The Gulf Coast Box Turtle is listed as Vulnerable.

Threats

Deforestation, wetland drainage, road mortality, and illegal collection for the pet trade pose major threats. Climate change and increased urbanization further impact its habitat.

Conservation Measures

Legal protections exist in some states, restricting collection and trade. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation, wetland restoration, and public awareness campaigns.

Economic Importance

This species has some economic significance in the pet trade, but its specific environmental needs make it challenging to care for in captivity. It also plays a role in controlling insect and snail populations in its ecosystem.

Interesting Facts

• It is the largest subspecies of the Common Box Turtle, with some individuals growing over 8 inches long.
• Unlike fully aquatic turtles, it is mostly terrestrial but enjoys soaking in shallow water to stay hydrated.
• It has strong homing instincts and can navigate back to its original habitat if displaced.