Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi, I live in southeastern Wisconsin and sometimes visit the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (the "Domes", if anyone else has heard of them) in Milwaukee. In the past few years, they've added an educational center to their exhibits, and they have a few animals to show to school groups. A few months ago, they acquired a female three-toed box turtle that someone apparently dropped off in one of the Domes. They have her living in what appears to be a 15 or 20 gallon tank, with dirt and plants and I think a water dish. She has a full-spectrum bulb as well. They also have what I think is a uromastyx, which has only a white heat lamp for a light source. I'm not sure what either animal is being fed, but since I have no experience with box turtles, I was wondering how unhealthy this environment is for her. From what I've read, they are a little high-maintenance, and usually she and the uromastyx are just sort of huddled in a corner. I have a Russian tortoise and I know he likes to roam and get exercise, and I assume that box turtles need access to spacious areas as well. It's been suggested that I offer to take the turtle but I don't think they'd part with it, plus I'm in no position to take on a box turtle. Are there any supplies I could offer the staff, or at least any advice? I hate to think that those animals, with whom the staff is trying to educate school groups, are actually suffering due to a lack of education on the part of the staff. I'll try to get over there sometime in the next few days to take pics and hopefully talk to someone in charge of their care. Thanks!

There's a good, comprehensive site - www.boxturtlesite.org. Maybe you could print out some chapters that pertain to housing and give it to them. They probably just don't know.
Good luck!

All nature centers should showcase native animals in naturalist enviroments and when you find one that does not, then you have cause to be concerned and complain. If it was me I would go to the top person at the facility and explain to them that what you know about the habitat of Three-toed box turtles is not being represented by their display, and you would be happy to provide them with some husbandry literature and even donate a few supplies. Remind him of the value to children to see native wildlife in natural setups. Tell him this way kids don't begin to think they can just buy a glass tank and a water bowl and keep a wild turtle.

It takes a lot of courage to complain, but if people don't, then who will speak for the voiceless turtle, or that poor lizard? Go for it and don't give up till you see some improvement. Good luck and thanks for caring
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Tess
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