Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Since it's been so warm lately here in Louisiana, a few of my Florida box turtles have decided to come out and enjoy the nice weather. For the past few days, the temperatures have been reaching into the 70's. It's actually been pretty mild for the past month, even for Louisiana standards. We've had maybe a couple nights getting down into the 30's and only a handful in the 40's; most nights have been in the 50's with a few 60's. Daytime temps have averaged in the 60's with numerous days in the 70's, but the forecast says that's about to change. Next week we actually have a shot at some winter precipitation for the first time in 3 or 4 years.

Anyway, I snapped a few pictures of the turtles that were up today. The first two pictures are two of my females, and the third one is one of my males. They are a little dirty, but I figured you would still like to see the pictures. It is interesting to note that 3 of my 5 Florida box turtles are up today, while none of my 7 three-toed's are awake. Also, with temperatures near 80 degrees a couple weeks ago, all 5 of the Florida's were up, but only 2 of the three-toeds were.

Those are interesting events.

Often Floridas don't hibernate in the southern parts of their habitat. However in your area; it is cool enough that one would think ..they'd hibernate.

Floridas in particular seem to not be affected by the lack of cooler weather to produce large clutches as do their cousins. You might find it entertaining to read what Kenneth Dood Jr., states in his book entitled NORTH AMERICAN BOX TURTLES. He has a special section devoted to Floridas...Actually much of it is on Floridas..But full of information on advanced care of box turtles.

Keep us posted!

Those are nice animals. Thanks for sharing!

Ric K.