Colorado Box Turtle Project

Colorado Box Turtle Project

The ornate box turtle (Terrapene ornata ornata) is a widespread and familiar animal on the central plains and savannas of the United States, and is considered common throughout much of its range. The ornate box turtle's approachability and charisma have made it a favorite of adults and children alike for many generations.

Unfortunately, this gentle demeanor has made it a target for the pet trade, its slow movements have made it an easy road kill, and human activities have destroyed and fragmented its habitat.

Despite its perceived commonness, few extensive studies of been done on populations of T. o. ornata, and none have been done in the State of Colorado. Scientific research on other populations and local anecdotal evidence point to rapidly declining populations. Colorado Box Turtle Project is the first study of its kind in Colorado and is adding to our understanding of population dynamics, land use, and impacts of human activity including harvesting for the pet trade and private ownership. As Colorado's Eastern plains continue to be heavily developed, this information will aid in establishing population viability and conservation needs before it becomes too late to prevent extirpation.

CoBTP is collecting tissue samples as part of a wide-ranging genetic analysis of box turtles being conducted by Dr. John Placyk at the University of Texas, Tyler. We are looking forward to continuing this collaboration and adding others soon.

Colorado Reptile Humane Society is currently seeking funding sources and equipment donations to support the Colorado Box Turtle Project. If you are interested in supporting the project or would like more information, please contact us at boxturtleproject@corhs.org.

Colorado Reptile Humane Society is licensed by the State of Colorado, Pet Animal Care Facilities Act, as an animal shelter.
Colorado Reptile Humane Society is a federal 501(c)(3)non-profit organization.