Three-toed Box Turtle

1 Overview

The three-toed box turtle (Terrapene carolina triunguis) is a subspecies of the common box turtle from the south-central US, distinguished by having only three toes on each hind foot. Like all box turtles it has a hinged plastron.

SOURCE NOTE: the source noted only ‘very long-lived’; three-toed box turtles commonly live 50-100+ years.

2 Appearance

The high-domed carapace is olive to brown, often plain; the hind foot has three toes (versus four in other subspecies). Adults are 12-16 cm.

3 Care & Temperament

Needs high humidity, a humid retreat, daily UVB, and a calcium-rich diet. Shell rot and dehydration are the main issues.

Personable and recognisable of keepers, but do not thrive in dry or barren setups.

4 Habitat & Environment

Moist forest edge and grassland. Mimic with a moisture-holding substrate, cover, a soak dish, and a warm, UV-lit basking area.

5 Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous: earthworms, snails, insects, berries, and mushrooms, plus leafy greens. Dust with calcium; avoid excess fruit.