Wood Turtle

This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.

Protected first, pet second

Wood turtles, Glyptemys insculpta, are the brown, sculpted-shell turtles of northeastern streams and woods. Adults are about 5 to 9 inches and often live 40 to 60 years. They are known for stomping the ground to bring up worms, and for learning a pen faster than people expect. They are also one of the more protected turtles in North America. Collection, sale, and often possession of wild animals are illegal. This page is not a shopping list.

If you already keep a legal, documented captive, the husbandry is semi-aquatic. Plan a 4 by 2 foot space, temperatures about 65 to 80°F, and humidity around 60 to 70 percent. They walk as much as they swim. Half land, half clean water, and a ramp out. Care is intermediate because the water quality and the cool temperature band are easy to get wrong.

Worms, plants, and a filter

They eat insects, worms, greens, and a little fruit, which is a real omnivore diet. Fish as a staple is a poor idea. UVB over the land side and a filter on the water side are the equipment that matters. A turtle that basks all day with shut eyes, or that skips food, needs a reptile vet. Finding one starts at ARAV.

Wood turtle questions

Can I keep a wood turtle I found?

No. Wood turtles are protected, and taking one from the wild is illegal across their range. Leave it where it is, and do not post the spot.

How long do wood turtles live?

40 to 60 years. That span is one reason wild adults cannot be replaced by a pet-shop hatchling.

Do wood turtles need a pond?

They need both. A land area for walking and a clean water area deep enough to soak, with an easy climb-out. A dry box or a bare aquarium both fail them.