Georgia Aquarium Partners with Southern Conservation Trust on Box Turtle Nesting Research

This extraordinary partnership set out to protect the delicate box turtle nests within The Ridge Nature Preserve and gather data to better understand the substantial box turtle population in the area. The results have been nothing short of spectacular. With a total of 23 box turtle nests safeguarded throughout the nesting season. The success of this collaboration demonstrates the power of teamwork and a shared commitment to preserving this remarkable species.

The highlight of this year’s endeavor is the remarkable success in hatching. More than 40 hatchlings have resulted from this collaborative effort, marking a significant increase in the box turtle population within the region. Nesting season for box turtles generally starts in the spring and concludes with hatching in the fall. Last year, 12 nests were protected in The Ridge Nature Area, with nine hatchlings. The dense population of box turtles in one area is significant. The data collected from this population will provide insight into the local environment’s health and aid researchers in determining practices to help conserve this species in other areas.

Box turtles benefit greatly from protected areas – which maintain natural habitats and protect them from predators, visitors, and vehicles. However, habitat loss, traffic incidents, and collection for the pet trade are all factors that can contribute to species decline. Georgia prohibits Eastern Box Turtles from being taken as pets because they are considered vulnerable on the IUCN red list.

If you come across a box turtle, do not disturb them unless removing them from the road. Box turtles have a homing instinct which gives them the ability to navigate to a “home base” despite being in an unfamiliar area. Box Turtles will wander continuously until they reach their home base if they become separated from it.