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Environmental Temperature and Frequency of Feeding
Box turtles can be fed daily, though many hobbyists feed them every other day or
2-3 times weekly. They will not eat at low environmental temperatures and likewise cannot digest food well at low
temperatures. Consistently warm environmental temperatures must be maintained, especially at night, for box turtles
kept in colder climates, or for those not allowed to hibernate.
Hibernation
Any box turtle that has recently been ill should
not be allowed to hibernate. Hibernation results in a general decrease in overall resistance
of the turtle. Consequently, latent or chronic illness in a hibernating turtle can then create more serious and
even life-threatening disease. Hibernation is not necessary for the health and well-being of box turtles. Unlike
regular sleep, hibernation involves a more prolonged period of inactivity, accompanied by a substantial decrease
in metabolic activity, both of which enable the animal to survive Periods during which environmental conditions
are relatively harsh.
Newly acquired box turtles should not be allowed to hibernate until their health
status has been accurately determined. Hatchling box turtles should not be allowed to hibernate until after their
third year of life. Bar turtles can be kept from hibernating by maintaining their winter environmental temperature
5-10 degrees higher than their summer temperature. Under these conditions, box turtles usually appear sluggish.
If they refuse to eat, Periodic forced-feedings are recommended.
Hibernating Indoors
Box turtles can be placed in a protected box (wooden or cardboard) partially filled
with clean dirt (potting soil is recommended). The soil should be kept slightly damp. A layer of dead leaves or
crumpled newspaper should cover the dirt A shallow dish of water should also be provided. The box can be placed
in a cool area (such as a garage) and should be maintained rodent-free. The hibernating turtle should be checked
periodically. During warm spells, the turtle may temporarily come out of hibernation; food should be offered at
these times.
Hibernating Outdoors
The hibernation period begins with impenitence in October or November in southern California
and ends in March or April, depending on environmental conditions in the spring. Box turtles may be al- lowed to
hibernate in the corner of a dog house or other similar shelter if they are allowed to burrow under some loose
cover. Dead leaves or crumpled newspapers can be provided for this purpose. An alternative arrangement involves
providing a protected area with loose dirt and a covering layer of dead leaves or dried lawn clippings that cannot
be flooded by winter rains.
Box turtles may emerge during warm spells, during which time they may feed. Food
should be provided at these times as well as a shallow dish of water for soaking, if the turtle chooses to do so.
Box turtles hibernating outdoors should be protected from flies, ants and predatory marauders, such as dogs, cats,
rats, skunks and opossums.
Diseases and Medical
Problems
Most box turtles sold as pets in the United States have been captured by turtle
hunters in their wild habitats. Captured turtles are then congregated in boxes and later sold to pet stores. Those
caring for the newly captive turtles attempt to feed them but have little knowledge of individual needs. The turtles
are often confused and intent on escape and may not eat or drink for weeks or even months. The stress of capture,
combined with the circumstances of crowding and malnutrition, often result in disease and swift disease transmission.
A recently captured turtle purchased in the spring is much more likely to be healthy
than one sold much later in the year or during the winter. The latter specimens are much more likely to be seriously
ill.
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VETERINARY
ASSOCIATES STONEFIELD