MALAYAN BOX TURTLE

GENERAL CARE
If you want a box turtle which will be easily cared for in a terrestrial environment and comfortable at "room temperature," there are some from which to choose. North American box turtles are sometimes kept that way, as are some of the Asian box turtles. One creature that is absent from that list, however, is Cuora amboinensis. Unfortunately, when a customer buys a Malayan box turtle from a pet store, incorrect information often comes along with the purchase.

In order to provide appropriate care for any animal, it's best to take your cues from the animal's natural environment. In view of that, we must examine the unique nature of the Malayan Box Turtle:

1. It is the most highly aquatic of all species of box turtles in the world.
2. It ranges entirely within the lowland, equatorial rainforests of

We know that these things are true from a number of professional citations and zillions of eye-witness reports from the citizens of Southeast Asia. We would be wise to create an environment for the "Water box turtle" based on these facts.

SET-UP
The Malayan box turtle requires an aquarium that provides a water area and a land area in approximately a 50:50 ratio. A 20-gal. long is considered a minimum size for one individual. The "long" format allows for more surface area, and you don't need the greater depth of the standard 20-gal tank. The wider "breeder" tanks would be preferred for a pair. Make sure to provide enough water for swimming, at least 6" deep. Place a reptile light fixture (such as Reptisun) on the tank, and provide some other type of basking and warming lamp. Use of substrate is optional. Pea gravel can be very attractive and natural looking. Additional rocks, wood and plants make nice additions to an aquarium.
I keep mine outdoors in an enclousure that contines a half whiskey barrel for a pond. Ben my Malayan shares this area with Franklin my Three Toed Box Turtle. Althought their needs do differ some they share the area well. Both enjoy the mister being on every afternoon, to help raise the humidity and water the plants I recently added to their area.

HEAT AND HUMIDITY
A reliable water heater is required. (An "Ebo-Jager" model has been recommended, while another brands have failed to maintain a reliable temperature.) Keep the water temperature between 80 and 85 degrees F. (26.7 - 29.4 C.) Cover the tank enough to mainntain a high humidity level (in the tropical range, 75-90%) and an air temperature of at least 78 degrees F, (25.6 C.)

FEEDING
In diet, at least, the Malayan is much like other box turtles--omnivorous. Provide a variety of greens 'n veggies, some fruits, mushrooms and an occasional waxworm or cricket. "Gut loading," or feeding nutritional plant matter to the worms or crickets before offering them to the turtle, improves the quality of this food source. Use a good supplement, formulated for turtles, to assure proper nutrition. (Supplements are not needed daily if the animal is feeding well and is provided with an excellent variety.) Malayans prefer to feed in the water, if the water is warm enough. Feeding in a sink or plastic tub away from the aquarium will make cleaning easier. Healthy, well-nourished turtles do not require daily feedings. One or two substantial feedings per week should keep your turtle happy and active without risking overfeeding. (Please note: turtles should not be fed spinach, rhubarb or parsley as these are high in oxalic acids, which can cause calcium deficiency and kidney damage.)

HIBERNATION
In the wild, the Malayan box turtle is never found in sub-tropical, temperate or alpine areas. It never hibernates.

BREEDING

TROUBLESHOOTING
Cuora amboinensis-is a hardy species. It can endure poor husbandry, but why should it have to? If you are unable to provide proper care, find someone who can. You can then get one of the other box turtles that may fit your lifestyle better. Here are some signs that the turtle needs a change in its care.

INACTIVITYThis little creature is highly curious and active by nature. If yours spends a lot of time sitting in the corner or "burrowing," it is not comfortable. The most likely cause is insufficient attention to temperature and humidity.
AVOIDANCEAn aquatic animal will not avoid water if it is healthy and has a suitable supply of water available. Most likely, the water is too cold (below 78 degrees F.) The land area of the cage must also be warm and humid so that the animal does not cool rapidly when it comes out of the water.
INFECTION Any sign of swelling around the eyes or ears, "bubbling" from the nose, or soft areas of the shell should be treated by a competent reptile veterinarian. The vivarium water and land areas must be kept very clean to avoid infections. Malayans kept under conditions that are too dry appear to be particularly susceptible to respiratory infections.
FLAKING SHELL Wild captured Malayans are often poorly cared for in transit and "storage" before they arrive at the pet store. If they have not had access to warm water and high humidity, the outer layer of the carapacial scutes can begin to peel up. When the animal is returned to good living conditions, this may correct itself. However, while the flaking exists, harmful pathogens can find their way under the damaged laminae. In that case "shell rot" can result. If caught early, diligent home treatments are often successful
REFUSAL TO EAT This species tends to eat eagerly, even with less than optimum care. If your C. amboinensis -is not eating, it may be very ill. Seek veterinary help.

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