Iguana b&w text


The Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata ornata) 
in Colorado

F O C U S  O N  C O N S E R V A T I O N

The Western or Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene ornata ornata) is a widely distributed and familiar animal on 
the central plains 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, its gentle demeanor has made it a target for the pet trade, its slow movements 
have made it an easy roadkill, and human activities have destroyed and fragmented its habitat.

Despite its perceived abundance, few extensive studies have been done on populations of T. o. ornata, and 
none have been conducted in Colorado. Scientific research on other populations and local anecdotal evidence 
point to rapidly declining populations. The Colorado Reptile Humane Society is launching the Colorado Box 
Turtle Project, a study of populations of T. o. ornata to better understand population dynamics, land use, and 
impacts of human activities, which include harvesting for the pet trade. As Colorado’s eastern plains continue 
to be heavily developed, this information will aid in determining population viability and conservation needs 
for this species before it becomes too late to prevent extirpation.

The Colorado Reptile Humane Society is currently seeking funding sources and equipment donations to 
support the Colorado Box Turtle Project. For more information, including a more detailed project description, 
please visit: 

www.corhs.org/boxturtleproject.html
or contact    

boxturtleproject@corhs.org.

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