Care level: Intermediate
Temperament: Docile, although handling should be kept to a minimum
Behavior: diurnal, terrestrial, solitary
Minimum enclosure size: 6.5×3.5’ (2×1m) with sides at least 18” (45cm)
Basking spot temp (surface): 85-90°F (30-32°C)
Cold side temp: 70-75°F (21-24°C)
Nighttime/minimum temp: 60°F (15.5°C)
UVB: UVI 2.9-7.4/Ferguson zone 3 (e.g. Arcadia T5HO 6% at 8-13”(20-33cm) away with no mesh or 6-10”(15-25cm) away with typical mesh)
Humidity: 60-80%, never below 50%
Diet: Plant matter and animal/insect protein
Brumation: in the wild, will brumate underground from October/November to April (shorter in the southern regions of their range)
Adult size: 5-7” (13-20cm)
Wild Distribution: open woodlands, pastures and meadows throughout the eastern United States
(care guide written with contributions by mandi#6740)
Other Resources:
Reptifiles Guide – Eastern Box Turtle