Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi all,

I inherited these 3 box turtles when I moved into my new home 1.5 years ago. Interestingly enough, the former owner did not inform me of the companions he left behind. One turtle I know is an Ornate Box Turtle (Western?), but the other two I have no clue. Here's where you can help

For photos, please go to the link below my name.

Many thanks in advance,

Gabriela
www.myboxturtles.com

Gabriela, your first picture is an Ornate Box Turtle like you thought. A female though. Your second picture is of 2 Central American Ornate Wood Turtles, Rhinoclemmys pulchrima manni. they like it more humid then the Ornate box turtle. Keep them like you would the Eastern box turtles.
Hope this helps,
Dan

Hi Dan,

Thank you *very* much for your assistance in identifying the two. A herpetologist from UC San Diego claimed that they too were Western Ornate Box Turtles but I just couldn't buy it.

Interestingly enough, I thought the Ornate Box Turtle was male. Only because during the spring (as was just the case), this one is always mounting the other two. Strange behavior for a female, I would think.

Perhaps taking the 3 to a vet is a good idea at this point since I'm not sure of their health status? And you're right; I've observed the other two bathing in my Koi pond whilst the Ornate Box Turtle seems to do better during the warm season.

Once again, thank you!

Gabriela
MyBoxTurtles.com

"A herpetologist from UC San Diego claimed that they too were Western Ornate Box Turtles "
Thats just sad IMO.

female box turtles will mount another box turtle to show it's dominance, same reason a male will mount another male.
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My Site
1.2.1 Terrapene Carolina Triunguis
0.1 Nymphicus hollandicus
1.1 Melopsittacus undulatus
1.0 American Cocker Spaniels
1.0 American Short Hair? Cat
1.1 Rouen Ducks

The do like to soak and swim. So you should provide them a shallow pool of sorts to swim around in and then crawl out. Also try varying their diet with more than fruit. Try some greens, insects even a little reptomin. They are my favorite wood turtle. Both look to be in very good shape.

Steve