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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/reptile-box-turtle-lifespan

How long can a pet eastern box turtle live, per the Merck Veterinary Manual?

25 to 50 years.

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  1. 25 to 50 years ✔
  2. 3 to 5 years
  3. 8 to 10 years

Why: Merck lists eastern box turtles at 25 to 50 years. A box turtle bought for a child could still need care when that child has kids of their own, so plan who will look after it.

Huh, didn't know that: Merck says turtles and tortoises have complex housing and environmental needs, so check with a reptile vet before getting one.

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How do turtles talk to each other? With shell phones.
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References

Answer: 25 to 50 years. Merck lists eastern box turtles at 25 to 50 years. A box turtle bought for a child could still need care when that child has kids of their own, so plan who will look after it.

  1. Average Life Span of Reptiles in Captivity (Merck Veterinary Manual) www.merckvetmanual.com/multimedia/table/average-life-span-of-reptiles-in-captivity
    Eastern box turtle 25 to 50 years
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Selecting a Reptile (Merck Veterinary Manual, pet owner version) www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/reptiles/selecting-a-reptile
    Turtles and tortoises have complex housing and environmental needs.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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