Turtle
Tracks
A Field Guide to the Eastern Box Turtle
Find a Turtle
Slow down and look in places that offer shelter, moisture and food.
Where to Look
Eastern Box Turtles may be found in woodlands, fields, yards and brushy edges—especially around leaf litter, logs, shrubs and other cover.
What to Look For
- Moist leaf litter and shaded ground
- Brush, fallen logs and sheltered edges
- Gardens and yards with natural cover
- Activity after rain or on warm, humid days
Identify a Turtle
Learn the key features of the Eastern Box Turtle.
Eastern Box Turtle
Terrapene carolina
A land-dwelling turtle known for its high-domed shell, hinged plastron and varied markings.
Key Identification Features
- High-domed shell
- Hinged plastron (bottom shell)
- Red or orange eyes are common
- Sturdy, scaly legs without webbing
- Yellow, orange or brown shell markings
- Found on land in forests, fields and yards
This is a field guide, not automated image recognition. A photograph alone cannot confirm that two sightings are the same individual.
Observe
Record what you see without disturbing it.
My Turtle Tracks
Your first observation will appear here.
Backup Your Journal
Your records are stored on this device. Export them regularly so you don't lose your field history.
Learn
Natural history, behavior, habitat and conservation.
Natural History
Eastern Box Turtles are land-dwelling turtles that use a variety of forest, edge and yard habitats.
Behavior
Look for movement, feeding, sheltering and seasonal activity. The best observations are made without touching or moving the animal.
Habitat
Leaf litter, fallen logs, shrubs, moist soil and natural ground cover provide important shelter and foraging opportunities.
Conservation
Protecting habitat, avoiding unnecessary handling and keeping pets away from wild turtles are simple ways to help.
For current South Carolina regulations and wildlife guidance, consult the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.