Which type of habitat does the eastern box turtle prefer?

The eastern box turtle is primarily found in forested areas and wet meadows because these habitats provide the essential conditions for their survival and reproductive needs. They favor environments that offer a mix of different elements such as cover from predators, abundant food sources, and varied moisture levels. Forested areas provide shade, leaf litter for foraging, and protection from extreme weather, while wet meadows offer access to water and lush vegetation.

These environments also support the turtle’s diet, which consists of a variety of plant materials, fruits, and small invertebrates. The moist, rich soil found in these habitats aids in their burrowing behavior and provides suitable conditions for egg laying. This preference aligns with the turtle's evolutionary adaptations, which make it better suited to thrive in environments rich in biodiversity found in forests and wetlands rather than in more arid or open environments.