Scientific Name: Rhinoclemmys punctularia

South American Wood Turtles are found in tropical forests of South America.  They are largely terrestrial but are often found in our near bodies of water.

Maximum size:  10”

Lighting:  Florescent full spectrum bulbs and a basking light are required.

Temperature range: 76°F –86°F

Food: Wood turtles are primarily carnivorous.  Their diet should consist mainly of worms, crayfish, snails, and crickets.  A small amount of leafy green vegetable matter should be supplied.  A high quality vitamin and calcium supplement should be added to food.    

Water: A large container of clean water should always be available for drinking, soaking, and increasing humidity.

Housing/Habitat: They can be housed in a humid tropical aqua-terrarium with a mixture of fibrous peat-type composts, soft sand, leaf litter, and orchid or cypress bark as a substrate in the terrarium portion of the habitat.  The aquatic portion of the habitat must be well filtered and changed frequently.  They can also be housed in a terrarium with a minimum of three inches of the same type of substrate.  An additional layer of sphagnum moss will provide a means to increase humidity levels.  Silk or live tropical plants and driftwood or wooden hiding places will make the habitat more attractive and provide shade for the turtles.  Misting until the moss is very damp several times a day will help keep the humidity high.  The substrate and water must be changed frequently.