Diseases and Medical Problems

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Most box turtles sold as pets in the United States have been

captured by turtle hunters in their wild habitats.  Captured

turtles are then congregated in boxes and later sold to pet

stores.  Those caring for the newly captive turtles attempt to

feed them but have little knowledge of individual needs.  The

turtles are often confused and intent on escape and may not eat

or drink for weeks or even months.  The stress of capture,

combined with the circumstances of crowding and malnourishment,

often result in disease and swift disease transmission.



A recently captured turtle purchased in the spring is much more

likely to be healthy than one sold much later in the year or

during the winter.  The latter specimens are much more likely to

be seriously ill.