On Mon, 21 Jul 2003 21:52:13 GMT, "Anne Lurie" wrote:

[my apologies for cross-posting this with triangle.gardens, but I know that
some of you have discussed turtle ponds, etc.]

Yesterday, I noticed a Box Turtle (I think that's what it was) next to one
of my raised beds. Actually, I nearly stepped on the poor guy, because I
wasn't expecting any surprises there!

The turtle seems to be missing one of its front legs. I don't know how this
affects its ability to move around, it's apparent that the turtle uses its
front legs to pull off pieces of food to eat -- when I put down a few
slices of melon, it used one front foot to hold down the melon while pulling
pieces off.

Anybody have any suggestions what I should do -- if anything -- to help
this turtle out? I say "if anything" because I'd hate to see the turtle
become dependent upon my putting down food for it under the hedge. I'm not
going to put it in a cage, nor am I going to relocate it if I can help it,
because right now it's safe from my own dogs (and other dogs), and there are
lots of places for it to find cover.


Hi Ann,

I believe you can buy turtle food at the pet store. If not, feed him iguana
food, but not exclusively. It may have too much protein in it for box
turtles. They eat mostly fruits, berries, leaves, mushrooms, and an
occasional insect snack. He will seek a dry place to dig in and hibernate
for the winter. They like to hibernate in dry burrows or under logs.

Bob