Terrapene carolina yucatana (Yucatan Box Turtle)
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The Yucatan Box Turtle (Terrapene yucatana) is a rare terrestrial turtle native to the Yucatán Peninsula. Known for its domed shell and ability to fully close its shell for protection, this species thrives in tropical habitats but remains poorly studied in the wild.
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Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Testudines
- Family: Emydidae
- Genus: Terrapene
- Species: Terrapene carolina
- Sub-Species: Terrapene carolina yucatana
Common Names
Yucatan Box Turtle
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Identification
Description
The Yucatan Box Turtle has a high-domed, hinged shell that allows it to close itself completely for defense. Its carapace is usually dark brown or black with yellowish markings, while the plastron is lighter with some dark blotches. The skin is brownish with yellow or orange speckles, particularly on the head and limbs.
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 species is endemic to the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, including parts of Belize and Guatemala. It primarily inhabits lowland forests and humid environments within this region.
Preferred Habitat
The Yucatan Box Turtle prefers tropical forests, wetlands, and areas with dense vegetation. It thrives in humid conditions and is often found near seasonal water sources such as marshes and ponds.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
It is an omnivore, feeding on a mix of fruits, fungi, insects, small invertebrates, and carrion. Its diet varies depending on seasonal availability.
Predators
Predators include large birds, snakes, and mammals such as raccoons. Hatchlings and juveniles are especially vulnerable due to their softer shells.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
Mating typically occurs during the rainy season when humidity is high, encouraging reproductive activity.
Reproductive Method
Females lay small clutches of 2-4 eggs in moist soil or leaf litter. Incubation lasts around 70-90 days, with hatchlings emerging during warm, wet conditions.
Conservation
Extinction Status
The species is considered vulnerable due to habitat loss and illegal collection for the pet trade.
Threats
Deforestation, urban expansion, and agricultural activities threaten its natural habitat. Additionally, poaching for the exotic pet market reduces wild populations.
Conservation Measures
Legal protections exist in parts of its range, but enforcement is weak. Conservation efforts include habitat preservation, stricter trade regulations, and captive breeding programs.
Economic Importance
The Yucatan Box Turtle has limited economic impact. It is sometimes captured for the pet trade, but its rarity and specialized care needs make it less common in captivity.
Interesting Facts
- This species is closely related to the Common Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina) but has adapted to the tropical climate of the Yucatán Peninsula.
- It can completely close its shell using a hinge on the plastron, making it nearly impossible for predators to pry open.
- Unlike many turtles, it spends most of its time on land rather than in water, though it seeks out humid environments to regulate its body temperature.
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.
