ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) — Meet Rupert, an eastern box turtle you can find at the Tanglewood Nature Center!   

At 28 years old, Rupert is a seasoned resident of the Tanglewood Nature Center, serving as one of their pet ambassadors. Visitors have the chance to learn about his unique adaptations, diet, and habitat, and more. 

Ryan Donnelly, a wildlife educator at Tanglewood, explained that the turtle’s shell provides a built-in defense mechanism, allowing him to retreat completely inside by using a specialized hinge to close himself off from predators. 

“In the wild, eastern box turtles like Rupert rely on this adaptation to protect themselves,” Donnelly said. “If he feels threatened, he can completely enclose himself in his shell.” 

Rupert is currently in a state of brumation, a process similar to hibernation in which reptiles experience a slower metabolism during colder months. Donnelly noted that in the wild, eastern box turtles burrow under leaves or logs to endure the winter until warmer temperatures signal them to become active again. 

Box turtles are omnivorous, and Rupert has adapted a varied diet at the nature center. He eats fruits such as strawberries and blueberries, along with lettuce, frozen pinky mice, and his personal favorite—earthworms. 

“You can find eastern box turtles here in New York, but they also range across the U.S., particularly in forested areas and swamps,” Donnelly said. “They thrive in habitats with plenty of cover and food sources.” 

Male box turtles also tend to have bright red eyes, whereas females typically have brown or muted-colored eyes, aiding in camouflage. 

With spring approaching, Tanglewood is preparing for its annual Bluebird Walk and Talk, led by executive director Elaine Smith, an expert on the species. The event includes an educational session followed by a guided hike through the center’s trails to observe bluebirds in their natural habitat. 

“Our social media and website are the best places to check for updates on the event,” Donnelly said.