How to Train a Boxer Turtle

Turtles are not your typical pet. Box turtles are a well-known species of turtle that many people enjoy keeping as a pet. Although box turtles are intelligent, the species does not train well. However, you can train your turtle to recognize you, as well as recognize its feeding spot and to feed out of your hand.

Things You'll Need

  • Box of turtle pellets
  • Banana
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up permanent feeding areas. Box turtles are creatures of habit. This species enjoys constant stability. Set up an area in the backyard for feeding. Ensure this area will not change. For example, set up a corner of your yard or use the corner of the porch. Place a food bowl in the area.

    • 2

      Feed the turtle at the same time, every day. Place the food in front of you. Speak in a soft and soothing voice. Allow the turtle to come to you. Shake a box of turtle food pellets as you sit the food down. This helps the turtle associate the shaking sound with food. Continue feeding the turtle in this manner until the turtle begins coming on its own for food.

    • 3

      Have the turtle eat out of your hand. After coaxing the turtle to its permanent eating spot by putting the food down, teach the turtle to eat out of your hand. Rattle the box of turtle pellets to coax it over.

    • 4

      Lay your hand flat with the palm up. Place a piece of banana in your hand. Bend down and offer the banana in your hand to the turtle. Allow the turtle to eat the banana out of your hand. Repeat this until the turtle is comfortable eating out of your hand.