You are to be MOST highly commended for wanting to finding out as much as you can about them BEFORE acquiring one.

Based on our own experiences here, I can say that they are easier (but not EASY) to care for when their needs are met: this means paying close attention to husbandry issues such as feeding, housing, hibernation, etc.

Another item for you to consider is veterinary care, should the need arise: would there be a herp vet nearby to take your pet to? Herp vets tend to charge more for office visits: ours charges $15 MORE for a visit than he charges for our dogs and cats.

Also, I'm a firm believer in keeping them outdoors of you live in their natural range: really this actually pays off because the mother nature does the 'heavy lifting' for you, by providing the sunlight and humidity. In the time that I've been posting on this forum, most feedback on outdoor vs indoor has been in favor of outdoor as being better overall.

They most certainly do have individual 'personalities' too, or certainly their own quirks: we've got some distinctive characters in our group here. One of ours seems to enjoy climbing, and does a very respectable suction-cup Garfield impersonation.

Box turtle hatchlings (CB usually) are most readily available on a seasonal basis, typically starting in August, when you'll see increases numbers being listed in the classifieds here and elsewhere.

If you're looking for an adult, adopting a turtle from a herp rescue in your area could be an option for you.

Apologies is any of this is old news: just offering suggestions and hints based on personal experience.

Welcome to the forum

Regards

Stephanie

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