Three-toed Box Turtle

Description:

I saved this box turtle as it was attempting to cross a busy road. Had a brief photo shoot and then released the turtle deep inside a nearby forest.

Habitat:

Normally found in grasslands and forest habitats.

Notes:

Usually 3 toes on hind limbs and usually a ridge along the center of the carapace. The plastron (bottom part of shell) has a distinct single hinge across the forward third of the shell, which allows the turtle to tightly close the lower shell against the inside edge of the upper shell.