The high-domed carapace of the box turtle may carry a wide variety of markings. Usually it is dark brown or black, accented with some combination of yellow streaks or blotches. The box turtle gets its name from its centrally hinged plastron (lower shell), which enables both front and rear portions of the plastron to be drawn up tightly against the carapace (upper shell). This “boxes in” the turtle for protection. Found in woodlands throughout Ohio, the box turtle is our most terrestrial turtle. During the heat of summer, this docile animal spends the day hidden beneath rotting logs, decaying leaves, and other plant debris, venturing out only during early morning or evening. A sudden shower after a dry spell will usually bring out box turtles in large numbers. Aside from the loss of habitat, a significant threat to Ohio’s box turtles is being run over as they lumber across roadways. LENGTH: 4.5” – 6”
Text courtesy of the Ohio Division of Wildlife: https://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/portals/wildlife/pdfs/publications/id%20guides/pub354_Reptiles-opt.pdf
