The Proper Feeding Practices of Box Turtles

(and other Terrestrial Turtles)

We at TropicZone get asked frequently just what the proper procedure is to feeding different varieties of turtles. As a Manufacture of Premium Turtle Diets for both Aquatic and Terrestrial Species (including Box Turtles), with decades of experience in feeding turtles behind us, we are uniquely qualified to answering this question in ways others may not be. The question itself is an important one, for if a diet (like a medication) is not administered correctly, it cannot provide the overall benefits you would expect. So, in this tutorial, let’s talk a bit about properly feeding Box Turtles at the “hobby” level.

To begin, in regard to dietary standards, we must understand some specifics that relate to Box Turtles and many other terrestrial species, one is that these specialized turtles are omnivorous feeders, meaning of course that they consume both animal and plant food sources. Box Turtles are highly insectivorous in nature, feeding mostly on live insect prey as a primary source of proteins and fats. In addition to this preference, assorted plant and fruit materials are also consumed to a varying degree. And finally, Box turtles are also known to scavenge dead materials from deceased animals. An alert, attentive nature, good vision, and a keen sense of smell, allows the Box turtle to be an effective hunter, grazer, and scavenger. In designing a proper dietary program for Box Turtles, these considerations must be kept in mind to assure their health, growth, and proper development. On the surface, providing a proper diet regiment for Box Turtles may look to be quite a bit of work, especially if you were thinking of providing a constant source of live insects, assorted grocery greens, and maybe some dead materials or cooked meats occasionally. While these food sources satisfy the basic nutritional requirements for the box turtle, they tend to be messy, a bit inconsistent, and a big commitment for the keeper. Fortunately, more effective ways to provide the correct, consistent nutrition has become available with properly formulated diets for box turtles.

At TropicZone we suggest that Box Turtles be offered a high-quality specialy formulated diet that is specifically designed just for them. We would confidently suggest the TropicZone Box Turtle Diets. The TropicZone 3-Stage Box Turtle Diets provide the required amounts of animal proteins and fats, along with measured amounts of plant materials, added calcium, and also complete vitamin and mineral supplementation, for all three stages of Box Turtle growth. TropicZone Box Turtle Diets provide a specialized diet formulated specifically for Box Turtles, one that is enjoyed by the turtles and easy on the keeper.

Feeding Fresh Foods: But what about a little fun and variety? TropicZone always suggest that offering occasional fresh food items in addition to the TropicZone Box Turtle Diet can be a worthwhile practice for most Box Turtles. In fact, TropicZone suggests up to 20% of the Box Turtles total diet can be comprised of fresh food items including live insects, fruits, or leafy greens. The remaining 80% of the diet being properly provided by the TropicZone Box Turtle Diet. By following this 80/20 rule, your Box Turtles nutrition will be very well provided for.

A Special Note on Feeding Hatchling/Baby Box turtles:

Feeding hatchling and baby Box turtles used to be a difficult endeavor. Many times, ending in the turtles never accepting the various foods offered. We are happy to say that hatchling and baby Box Turtles now have a ultra high-quality diet to rely on! TropicZone Stage-1 Baby Box Turtle Diet is a proven source of great nutrition for all baby Box Turtles and other Terrestrial species. Proper Nutrition in a small, tasty diet formulation baby Box Turtles just can’t resist.