Reptile · Box turtle
Keeled box turtle care guide
Cuora mouhotii
The keeled box turtle is a advanced-level box turtle from Southern China, Southeast Asia. Adults reach 15–18 cm shell and live 30+ years in captivity. A forest-floor turtle that likes cool, humid conditions with deep leaf litter.
- Enclosure 120 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp 22–27°C, basking 29°C
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a keeled box turtle cost in Canada?
Keeled box turtle quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 15–18 cm shell
- Lifespan
- 30+ years
- Activity
- Crepuscular
- Native range
- Southern China, Southeast Asia
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 114 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 22–27°C, basking 29°C
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Omnivore – earthworms, insects, snails, fruit, greens
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Keeled 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: 22–27°C, basking 29°C. Humidity: 70–90%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a keeled box turtle eat?
Omnivore – earthworms, insects, snails, fruit, greens. Feed adults every 1–2 days, mostly protein with some fruit.
Handling, temperament & health
Shy and secretive; minimise handling.
Health watch: Stress, dehydration and parasites in imported animals.
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 keeled 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
Keeled box turtle FAQ
Is the keeled box turtle good for beginners?
The keeled box turtle is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Shy and secretive; minimise handling.
What size enclosure does a keeled 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 keeled box turtle cost in Canada?
Typically $600–1200 CAD to buy, about $1020–1770 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $350–600 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a keeled box turtle need?
Temperature: 22–27°C, basking 29°C. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a keeled box turtle eat?
Omnivore – earthworms, insects, snails, fruit, greens. Feed adults every 1–2 days, mostly protein with some fruit.
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.