Reptile · Box turtle
Gulf Coast box turtle care guide
Terrapene major
The gulf coast box turtle is a intermediate-level box turtle from US Gulf Coast, Florida panhandle to Louisiana. Adults reach 15–21 cm shell and live 40–60 years in captivity. The largest box turtle; very fond of water, so offer a large soaking area.
- Enclosure 150 × 75 × 60 cm
- Temp Basking 30°C, cool 22°C
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a gulf coast box turtle cost in Canada?
Gulf Coast box turtle quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 15–21 cm shell
- Lifespan
- 40–60 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- US Gulf Coast, Florida panhandle to Louisiana
- Minimum enclosure
- 150 × 75 × 60 cm (59 × 30 × 24 in, ≈ 178 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
Gulf Coast box turtle enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 150 × 75 × 60 cm (59 × 30 × 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 gulf coast 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
Calm; tolerates gentle handling.
Health watch: Vitamin A deficiency, ear abscesses and shell rot in dirty, wet setups.
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 gulf coast box turtle bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (150 × 75 × 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
Gulf Coast box turtle FAQ
Is the gulf Coast box turtle good for beginners?
The gulf Coast box turtle is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Calm; tolerates gentle handling.
What size enclosure does a gulf Coast box turtle need?
At least 150 × 75 × 60 cm (about 59 × 30 × 24 inches, roughly 178 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a gulf Coast box turtle cost in Canada?
Typically $350–700 CAD to buy, about $1430–2430 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $300–550 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a gulf Coast box turtle need?
Temperature: Basking 30°C, cool 22°C. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a gulf Coast 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.