Although the eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) is a part of the pond turtle family, Emydidae, they are a mostly terrestrial species. All box turtles come with an amazing built-in defense against predators. The underside of their shell (plastron) is hinged, allowing them to tightly close their shells once their heads and legs are safely inside. Glenstone’s landscape is an ideal environment for eastern box turtles who make their homes in woodlands, forests, and meadows, and are usually found close to ponds and streams. Eastern box turtles are omnivores, eating a variety of plants, mushrooms, fruits, insects, and other small animals like fish and amphibians. In places where their range overlaps, the mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) has a mutualistic relationship with the eastern box turtle. The reptile consumes the plant's yellow fruit and distributes the seeds through its waste, resulting in an increased rate of successful seed germination!

–Carly Davis