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• Saturday, Sept. 13: Due to nearby events, traffic around Franklin Park Zoo may be heavier than usual. The Zoo will remain open—please allow extra travel time and plan your visit accordingly.
• Sunday, Sept. 14: Franklin Park Zoo will be closed for a private event. Boston Lights will still be open that evening. We appreciate your understanding!

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Eastern Box Turtle

Terrapene carolina

  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle
  • eastern box turtle

About the Eastern Box Turtle

conservation status: vulnerable

Geographic Range:

range map

Class: Reptilia
Order: Testudines
Family: Emydidae
Genus: Terrapene
Species: carolina

The six subspecies of box turtles have varied shell shapes, patterns and colorations. They have two unifying characteristics: their ability to completely close their shell (concealing and protecting their heads and all appendages) and their two-layered, high-domed carapace, or upper shell. Box turtles have a strong homing instinct and will try to find their way back if removed from their territory for any reason.