Explore Eastern Box Turtle appearance, habitat, behavior and responsible observation.
Find a Turtle
Eastern Box Turtles may be closer than you think. Your yard can be a great place to start looking.
Where to look
• Leaf litter
• Shaded areas
• Brush and vegetation
• Woodland edges
• Moist areas
• Quiet parts of your yard
Tip: Walk slowly and scan the ground. Give your eyes time to adjust.
If you find one...
Stop and observe it where it is. Don't chase it, handle it, feed it, or block its path.
Identify a Turtle
Take a photograph of the turtle. For this first field-test version, we're using the photo as an observation aid.
Eastern Box Turtle Checklist
Look for a high-domed shell, a hinged lower shell, and the overall shape and coloration characteristic of an Eastern Box Turtle.
Quiet Observation
Give it space. Watch before approaching. Photograph it only if you can do so without changing its behavior.
My Turtle Tracks
Eastern Box Turtle
Eastern Box Turtles are land-dwelling turtles known for their high-domed shells and hinged lower shells.
Observe, don't disturb
A good turtle encounter is one where the turtle gets to continue its natural behavior. Give it space and avoid unnecessary handling.
Become a better observer
Notice the habitat, weather, behavior, shell shape, coloration and what the turtle was doing when you found it.