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Ornate Box Turtle

The Ornate Box Turtle (or Terrapene Ornata) is known to be one of two turtle species that inhabit the Great Plains. These beautiful turtles are well known to many turtle lovers and are extremely easy to spot. Perhaps this is due to the vibrant yellow lines that decorate both the Carapace (upper shell) and the Plastron (lower shell).
Despite the fact that they are a popular pet among turtle loves, they are not recommended for beginners. This is because they are some of the most sensitive turtles to captivity as glass aquariums aren’t going to be enough for these beautiful turtles. Generally, they should be given a large habitat that will mock the grassy and damp plains of earth. They are known use burrows and other hide-outs that cannot be imitated within the confines of an aquarium.
Generally you should have two different temperatures in your Ornate Box Turtle’s enclosure. The first being a steady temperature of eighty to eighty five degrees, while the other should be a steady seventy degrees. Often times spraying the terrain to create proper humidity for your turtle at all times!
Their food varies, however they are known to be more of a carnivore then most turtles. Feeding them a mix of earthworms, mealworms, crickets, and even waxworms; some people even choose to feed their Ornate Box Turtles pinkie mice as they will help to meet your Turtle’s needs. On the opposite side of the spectrum, over-ripe fruits and vegetables are essential to their nutritional needs.