Reptile · Box turtle
Florida box turtle care guide
Terrapene bauri
The florida box turtle is a intermediate-level box turtle from Florida peninsula and Keys. Adults reach 12–15 cm shell and live 40–60 years in captivity. Prefers warmer, wetter conditions than northern box turtles and should not be hibernated hard.
- Enclosure 120 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Basking 30°C, cool 22°C
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a florida box turtle cost in Canada?
Florida box turtle quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 12–15 cm shell
- Lifespan
- 40–60 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Florida peninsula and Keys
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 114 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Basking 30°C, cool 22°C
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- UVB
- Required
- Diet
- Omnivore – earthworms, insects, snails, berries, greens, mushrooms
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Florida box turtle enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix15 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm
Deep, moist soil is what holds humidity in this build – much better than thin bedding, especially through Canadian winters.
Temperature: Basking 30°C, cool 22°C. Humidity: 70–90%. UVB: Required.
What does a florida box turtle eat?
Omnivore – earthworms, insects, snails, berries, greens, mushrooms. Feed adults every 1–2 days, roughly half protein and half plants.
Handling, temperament & health
Shy at first; tolerates gentle handling.
Health watch: Vitamin A deficiency, ear abscesses and respiratory infections in cool housing.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check warm and cool side temperatures and humidity.
- Refresh the water bowl.
Weekly
- Mist or pour water into the substrate to keep the lower layers moist.
- Spot-clean large waste promptly.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Stir and fluff compacted topsoil around hides.
- Check heat sources and thermostat calibration.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a florida box turtle bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 60 × 60 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 15 cm
Cypress Substrate
Optional top layer (cypress)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Tubes
Secure hides at both ends of the gradient
Malaysian Drift Wood
Sturdy enrichment for heavy-bodied animals
Florida box turtle FAQ
Is the florida box turtle good for beginners?
The florida box turtle is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Shy at first; tolerates gentle handling.
What size enclosure does a florida box turtle need?
At least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (about 47 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 114 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a florida box turtle cost in Canada?
Typically $300–600 CAD to buy, about $1040–1800 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $300–550 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a florida box turtle need?
Temperature: Basking 30°C, cool 22°C. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a florida box turtle eat?
Omnivore – earthworms, insects, snails, berries, greens, mushrooms. Feed adults every 1–2 days, roughly half protein and half plants.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.