Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have an adult male box turtle, Sidney, and I'm pretty sure he's a Florida box turtle. I took him to the vet last week to have his nails trimmed and the vet mentioned he was still a little skinny after coming out of hibernation. He has a great appetite for meal worms and tuna fish, not quite as good for veggies and fruits, but he still eats some. Now I'm worried that I haven't been giving him enough food. He weighs about one pound and his shell is about 4 1/2 to 5 inches long. My question is how much protein does he need? Any advice appreciated.

Jessica

first stop feeding him the tuna! theres no tuna in the woods or swamps of florida.

see [urlwww.boxturtlesite.org[/url] for more info on diet.

adult box turtles usually have less protein intake ( by % ) that young ones. most juvenile box turtles eat 80% or higher protein. an adult could be kept healthy with 40% or less protein. my information states that Florida box turtles are known to have a high protein preference.

the florida box turtle is slightly protected. did you catch him or buy him?

Mick

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"When tyranny and oppression come to this land, it will be in the guise of fighting a foreign foe."

James Madison

He was given to me as a present, purchased from a pet store in Florida. I've had him for a little over 4 years.