Reptile · Semi-aquatic turtle
Wood turtle care guide
Glyptemys insculpta
The wood turtle is a advanced-level semi-aquatic turtle from Northeastern North America incl. southern Ontario, Quebec, Maritimes. Adults reach 16–23 cm shell and live 40–60 years in captivity. Endangered in Canada: only captive-bred animals with paperwork; needs land plus a cool stream section.
- Enclosure 180 × 90 × 60 cm
- Temp Basking 30°C, ambient 18–24°C
- Humidity 60–80%
How much does a wood turtle cost in Canada?
Wood turtle quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 16–23 cm shell
- Lifespan
- 40–60 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Northeastern North America incl. southern Ontario, Quebec, Maritimes
- Minimum enclosure
- 180 × 90 × 60 cm (71 × 35 × 24 in, ≈ 257 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Basking 30°C, ambient 18–24°C
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- UVB
- Required
- Diet
- Omnivore – earthworms, insects, slugs, berries, greens, mushrooms
- Bioactive style
- Temperate forest
Wood turtle enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 180 × 90 × 60 cm (71 × 35 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a temperate forest bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix10 cm
Keep a moisture gradient: drier on top and at the warm end, slightly moist underneath and at the cool end.
Temperature: Basking 30°C, ambient 18–24°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Required.
Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.
What does a wood turtle eat?
Omnivore – earthworms, insects, slugs, berries, greens, mushrooms. Feed adults every 1–2 days, mixing protein and plant foods.
Handling, temperament & health
Intelligent and personable; tolerates gentle handling.
Health watch: Shell infections and respiratory infections in warm, dirty water.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check temperatures and refresh water.
Weekly
- Lightly moisten the cool end and lower soil.
- Spot-clean waste.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter; check hides and branches are stable.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a wood turtle bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (180 × 90 × 60 cm).
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 10 cm
Coco Husk Chips - Dried Loose Pack
Optional top layer (coco husk chips)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Cork Bark Flats
A hide in each temperature zone
Cork Branches
Many colubrids climb more than people expect
Wood turtle FAQ
Is the wood turtle good for beginners?
The wood turtle is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Intelligent and personable; tolerates gentle handling.
What size enclosure does a wood turtle need?
At least 180 × 90 × 60 cm (about 71 × 35 × 24 inches, roughly 257 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a wood turtle cost in Canada?
Typically $500–1000 CAD to buy, about $1590–2800 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $350–600 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a wood turtle need?
Temperature: Basking 30°C, ambient 18–24°C. Humidity: 60–80%.
What does a wood turtle eat?
Omnivore – earthworms, insects, slugs, berries, greens, mushrooms. Feed adults every 1–2 days, mixing protein and plant foods.
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.