- Box turtles are the official state reptile of Tennessee and can live to be over 130 years old.
- This species hibernates in burrows from October to April.
- Unlike other native species like snapping turtles, box turtles can completely enclose themselves within their shells.
- Box turtle numbers are declining due to habitat loss, accidents with cars, and other factors. You can help box turtles by allowing for shady wooded areas, leaf litter and fallen branches on your property and by moving a turtle off a road in the direction it was headed if you see one there.
