This group is commonly made up of the turtles and terrapins, both of which are called turtles and are aquatic or semiaquatic; tortoises, which are strictly terrestrial; and certain turtles which are marine. As good pet material does not come from the marine turtles, they are not discussed here.
Box turtles differ from other turtles by having a hinged plastron. This makes it possible for the creature completely to enclose its head, feet, and tail so that it looks like an oval box.
Man's ruthlessness and carelessness have reduced the number of box turtles to the point where they are now rare. Some states have enacted laws which prohibit the possession of these turtles. Check state laws before seeking a specimen for a pet.
Shell: The characteristic feature turtles feature of turtles is the shell or horny body covering. The upper part of the shell is properly termed the carapace, while the lower part is termed the plastron. The carapace and plastron are connected on each side of the body by a bony bridge. The head, legs, and tail may be drawn into the shell.
Both the carapace and the plastron are formed of platelike sections fused together and covered with a horny exterior. These plates are called shields.
This group is commonly made up of the turtles and terrapins, both of which are called turtles and are aquatic or semiaquatic; tortoises, which are strictly terrestrial; and certain turtles which are marine. As good pet material does not come from the marine turtles, they are not discussed here.