Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Are there any Eastern Box Turtle owners in Southern California here? I recently acquired three (3) Eastern box turtles, 1.1.1, 2 WC (from South Carolina) and 1 captive bred. I keep them in a large outdoor enclosure that gets plenty of afternoon sunlight. They seem to be doing fine.

I would be interested to know how (or if) other box turtles hibernate in Southern California. Contrary to popular belief, it can get quite chilly in Southern California in winter. In recent days my turtles have been digging in and staying put. I filled their enclosure with about 12-16" of dirt, wood chips, sphagnum moss, and sand. This makes it easy for them to dig down deep. I have also provided a hollowed-out log and a little 'cave' made out of slate and driftwood. They like to dig under these objects.

Any advice related to keeping these little guys healthy and strong during the winter?

I don't have a Eastern Box but I live in SoCal and have two 3-toed box turtles. One I've had for over ten years and has been roaming the yard ever since. I've never had a problem with them being outside for the winter. They have a spot full of leaves and loose dirt to escape the cold.

Thanks! Actually now only two of my Easterns are under. For some reason the adult female refuses to dig under, and for a few days she slept in the open while the night-time temps were low. I have now brought her inside. I am keeping her in a heated terrarium.

I think if it wasn't for the Rocky Mountains box turtles would be in Southern California, too! What nice weather you have there As long as the turtles have some protection from the cold when the temps get low and have access to fresh water for when the days get warm -they will be fine all winter. Be careful of prolonged rainy, cold weather. Turtles are quite susceptible to runny nose syndrome.