Indochinese Box Turtle

Indochinese Box Turtle key facts

Care level

Advanced

Lifespan

20+ years

Size

Carapace up to 19.8cm, with little difference between the sexes

Diet

Insects, land snails, earthworms, fruit, vegetables and prepared pellets

Temperature & Humidity

It lives in montane and hill forest, so avoid high temperatures and keep moisture in the substrate. Captive clutches have hatched in 65-72 days at 28-29 C.

Enclosure

Terrestrial, so keep it in a terrarium. Use a substrate that holds moisture and provide hides. It is a nervous species, so place the enclosure somewhere quiet with little foot traffic.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous, eating insects, land snails, earthworms and fruit. Combine plant food with animal food so that the diet does not become one-sided.

Temperament

Very nervous, it easily goes off food when the environment changes or it is stressed. Like other box turtles it gets on poorly with cage mates, so house it singly.

Notes

The species was moved to CITES Appendix I with effect from 23 February 2023, having been on Appendix II since the genus listing of 2000. In Japan it is therefore an internationally endangered species and every transfer requires an individual registration certificate. It is neither a designated dangerous animal nor an invasive alien species. Habitat loss and collection for food, medicine and the pet trade have caused a steep decline.

About Indochinese Box Turtle

A mountain box turtle known for its yellow-green head and fully closing shell. Max carapace length 19.8cm; best suited to experienced keepers. Traits, care tips, and FAQs inside.

7 things to know before welcoming a Indochinese Box Turtle

1. 1Montane habitat needs

   Because this species naturally lives in cool, humid mountain habitats, keepers need to manage temperature and humidity carefully rather than defaulting to warm, tropical setups. Accounting for seasonal and daily temperature swings is part of proper husbandry.

2. 2A fully closing shell

   The domed carapace pairs with a hinged plastron, allowing the turtle to withdraw completely and seal itself inside when startled. In the wild, this structure serves as protection from predators.

3. 3Shy, reclusive temperament

   This turtle is quiet and reclusive, spending much of its time hidden under leaf litter or cover. Providing shelters and a substrate layout with plenty of hiding spots is an important part of its setup.

4. 4Why it's for experienced keepers

   Recreating the temperature and humidity conditions this montane species needs is challenging, which is why it's rated for experienced keepers. It suits someone who already has box turtle care experience.

5. 5Adult size around 19.8cm

   Adults reach a maximum carapace length of about 19.8 cm, with little difference between males and females. Plan enclosure space with this eventual adult size in mind from the start.

6. 6Set up the enclosure first

   Before bringing one home, set up an enclosure with temperature and humidity control, hiding spots, and appropriate substrate. Having a calm, ready environment in place first helps the turtle settle in.

7. 7CITES Appendix I: check the registration certificate

   Indochinese Box Turtle is listed in CITES Appendix I. In Japan it is an "internationally endangered species" under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, so only registered individuals may be sold or transferred, and the registration certificate goes with the animal. Always check that the certificate is provided.

Frequently asked questions about Indochinese Box Turtle

Q.Can beginners keep an Indochinese box turtle?

A.This species is rated for experienced keepers. Its montane origin means it requires careful temperature and humidity management, making it better suited to those with prior reptile-keeping experience.

Q.Where does the name come from?

A.The Japanese name comes from the yellow-to-yellow-green coloring on the turtle's head. The species name likewise refers to a "yellow-green forehead."

Q.Why can its shell close completely?

A.Thanks to its domed carapace and hinged plastron, this turtle can withdraw and seal itself inside its shell when startled. It's a physical adaptation for defense against predators.

Q.How large does it grow as an adult?

A.Adults reach a maximum carapace length of about 19.8 cm, with little difference between males and females. Choose an enclosure with this eventual size in mind.

Q.Is it subject to any wildlife trade regulations?

A.Indochinese Box Turtle is listed in CITES Appendix I. In Japan it is an "internationally endangered species" under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, so only registered individuals may be sold or transferred, and the registration certificate goes with the animal. Always check that the certificate is provided.

Useful tools for Indochinese Box Turtle care

Learn more about Indochinese Box Turtle in the encyclopedia

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