CHINESE BOX TURTLE (Cuora flavomarginata)

CHINESE BOX TURTLE (Cuora flavomarginata)

$700.00

Full Description

CHINESE BOX TURTLE CARE GUIDE

Scientific name: Cuora flavomarginata
Common names: Chinese Box Turtle, Yellow-Margined Box Turtle

Species Overview

Trait Details
Lifespan 40–60+ years in captivity
Adult Size 5–7 inches shell length
Temperament Curious, shy but interactive over time
Native Range China, Taiwan, Ryukyu Islands (Japan)
Lifestyle Semi-aquatic but mostly terrestrial
Conservation Endangered (CITES Appendix II)

Enclosure Setup

Enclosure Type

  • Indoor: Tortoise table, large terrarium, or converted tub (minimum 3’x2′)

  • Outdoor (when weather allows): Secure pen with shade, hide spots, and shallow water

Substrate

  • Moisture-retaining soil mix: coconut coir, cypress mulch, sphagnum moss, organic topsoil

  • Keep damp but not soaked

Enclosure Features

  • Multiple hides (cork bark, half logs)

  • Leaf litter for cover

  • Low basking rock or flat stone

  • Shallow water dish large enough for soaking

️ Temperature & Humidity

Condition Ideal Range
Basking Temp 85–90°F (29–32°C)
Ambient Temp 72–78°F (22–26°C)
Night Temp 65–72°F (18–22°C)
Humidity 70–90%

  • Mist daily or use a fogger

  • Provide a humid hide with damp moss

☀️ Lighting

  • UVB lighting is essential (10–12 hours/day)

    • Use a T5 HO 5.0 or 10.0 UVB bulb

  • Supplement heat with ceramic heat emitter or basking bulb

  • Allow natural sunlight when safe and available (never through glass)

Diet

Omnivorous diet, varies by age (more protein when young)

✅ Main Diet Items:

  • Animal protein (30–50%):

    • Earthworms, snails, crickets, boiled egg, mealworms (in moderation)

    • High-quality canned insects or Reptilinks

  • Greens:

    • Dandelion, collard, mustard, hibiscus leaves, escarole

  • Vegetables:

    • Squash, bell peppers, mushrooms, shredded carrots

  • Fruits (occasional treat):

    • Papaya, berries, mango, banana

⚠️ Supplements

  • Calcium + D3 (2–3x/week if no UVB, 1–2x/week if using UVB)

  • Multivitamin once every 1–2 weeks

Water & Hydration

  • Shallow soaking dish available 24/7

    • Clean and refill daily

  • Soak turtle 2–3x/week if it’s not soaking on its own

  • Maintain high humidity, especially for hatchlings

Cleaning

  • Spot-clean substrate daily

  • Replace substrate monthly or as needed

  • Clean water dishes daily

  • Deep clean enclosure every 1–2 months

Behavior & Handling

  • Typically shy but become curious and interactive with regular, calm interaction

  • Not ideal for handling often — observe and engage gently

  • They like to explore, dig, and soak, so enrichment is key

Common Health Issues

Issue Prevention/Treatment
Shell rot Keep substrate clean and dry in areas
Respiratory infections Maintain proper heat/humidity; vet check
Pyramiding Caused by low humidity or poor diet
Vitamin A deficiency Provide varied, vitamin-rich foods
Parasites Regular fecal checks recommended

✅ Quick Care Checklist

  • Enclosure 3’x2′ or larger, with humid substrate

  • UVB lighting + basking heat

  • Humidity kept between 70–90%

  • Soaking dish + daily misting

  • Omnivorous diet with calcium/vitamins

  • Safe, shaded outdoor time if possible

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