The eastern box turtle is a listed species in the State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP). Find detailed information on the eastern box turtle, its threats, and what Massachusetts is doing to conserve this animal in its official factsheet.
Fast facts
Common name: box turtles
Scientific name: Terrapene carolina
Habitat: variety of upland habitats
Conservation status: Special Concern (MESA)
Fun fact: Eastern box turtles can swim!
Similar-looking species: Blanding's turtles and wood turtles
Identification tip: They can completely close their plastron to their carapace.
Description
The eastern box turtle is Massachusetts’ only completely terrestrial turtle. It is a small species ranging from about 11.4-16.5 cm (4.5-6.6 in) in carapace length. The box turtle is named because it can completely close its hinged plastron (lower shell), protecting its head, limbs, and tail. Adult eastern box turtles have a circular to oval, domed shell with variable coloration, but usually some combination of yellow, orange, brown, or black. The carapace is usually brown or black with irregular yellow or orange blotches. The plastron typically is light-colored with dark variable patterns, but some may be completely tan, brown, or black. The head, neck, and legs also vary in color and markings but are generally dark with orange or yellow mottling. Eastern box turtles have a short tail and an upper jaw ending in a hooked or curved beak. Male box turtles often have red eyes, and females have brown or dark red eyes. Male eastern box turtles have a moderately concave plastron, while females' plastrons are flat to convex. Male box turtles also have longer claws on the hind feet, and longer and thicker tails than females. Hatchling box turtles have a brown or tan carapace with a light yellow spot on each scute (scale or plate) and a distinct, light-colored, mid-dorsal keel (ridge). Hatchling box turtles’ plastron is yellow with a black central blotch near the yolk scar, and no visible hinge.