ORNATE BOX TURTLE
Terrapene ornate ornate
Carapace is dark brown, or nearly black, but may also be olive-green. Shell is covered in variable yellow lines that surround the scutes. Adults have yellow spots on their heads. Males have bright red eyes and green heads. Females have brown eyes and brown or black heads.
Length: 4-6 inches.
This species relies heavily on their sense of smell. They will continuously choose certain foods over others. Their sense of smell may also help them avoid predators.
They occur statewide, but are more common in Western and Northern Missouri.
They are associated with grasslands as well as woodlands. They prefer areas with loamy or sandy soil for burrowing.
These turtles are a species of concern in much of their range due to loss of habitat to agriculture and urban development. Carfatalities and the pet trade have also taken a toll on populations.
Like Three-toed box turtles they are imprinted on a small home range of about 2-5 miles, moving them from this area often results in stress or even death.
Length: 4-6 inches.
This species relies heavily on their sense of smell. They will continuously choose certain foods over others. Their sense of smell may also help them avoid predators.
They occur statewide, but are more common in Western and Northern Missouri.
They are associated with grasslands as well as woodlands. They prefer areas with loamy or sandy soil for burrowing.
These turtles are a species of concern in much of their range due to loss of habitat to agriculture and urban development. Carfatalities and the pet trade have also taken a toll on populations.
Like Three-toed box turtles they are imprinted on a small home range of about 2-5 miles, moving them from this area often results in stress or even death.
Photo by Peter Paplanus
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Fun Fact: Turtles and Tortoises are one of the longest lived animals on the planet. Many may live well over 100 years. |
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