Ecology and Conservation of Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata ornata) in Colorado: A Research Proposal (in .PDF format)
A preliminary report on the status of the ornate box turtle (Terrapene ornata) in the Sandhills of eastern Colorado (full report in .PDF format)
A preliminary report on the status of the ornate box turtle (Terrapene ornata) in the Sandhills of eastern Colorado (Poster in .jpg format)
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 Reptile Humane Society is launching the Colorado Box Turtle Project, a study of populations of T. o. ornata to add to our understanding of population dynamics, land use, and impacts of human activity including harvesting for the pet trade. 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.
For further details, please read Ecology and Conservation of Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata ornata) in Colorado: A Research Proposal for a summary of our research plans and A preliminary report on the status of the ornate box turtle (Terrapene ornata) in the Sandhills of eastern Colorado for a report on our first year's work. 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.
Copyright 2007 by Colorado Reptile Humane Society.