The eastern box turtle, a subspecies of the common box turtle, has a dark brown, hinged shell with yellow-orange markings. When threatened, it can pull its head, tail and limbs inside and shut its shell …

They are largely characterized by having a shell shaped like a dome, which is hinged at the bottom, allowing the animal to close its shell tightly to escape predators. Furthermore, the two genera are …

Jan 18, 2015 · “Box” turtles are named for their ability to withdraw their head, tail, and legs into their shell and tightly close their “door.” The shell is permanent, a part of their skeleton—they can’t shrug it off …

Mar 19, 2025 · Box turtle shells are often found at archeological sites in Virginia and were probably being used as food containers or rattles. The eastern box turtle is a common pet species in many …

Jan 15, 2025 · Box turtles are so named because they can not only retreat into their shells at the first sign of danger, but mostly seal off their legs and head within a hinged plastron (under shell) creating …

Jun 23, 2025 · Box turtles also have a hinged plastron (bottom shell) that allows them to close up shop in the front and rear, creating a “box” that protects their entire body from predators.

Male box turtles typically exhibit a concave plastron, or bottom shell, a notable feature that distinguishes them from females. This concavity serves a crucial role during mating, facilitating a more secure …

Jun 20, 2025 · Eastern box turtles have high-domed shells festooned with colorful yellow or orange markings, and stout legs built for walking.

Box turtles have a hinged plastron (bottom of shell). Because of this, they have the unique ability to pull their limbs, tail, and head into their shell and close it tightly when they are threatened. As the shell …

A key feature of box turtles is the singular hinge on their plastron that allows them to be fully enclosed within their shells. Adding to their box-like appearance, their shells are higher and more domed as …