MCCORD’S BOX TURTLE
Cuora mccordi
DESCRIPTION
McCord’s Box Turtle (Cuora mccordi) is a critically endangered species of turtle native to Southeast Asia. It is known for its distinctive high-domed shell and unique coloration.
FUN FACTS
- McCord’s Box Turtle is named after the herpetologist who discovered it | It is one of the most endangered turtle species in the world | Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect its habitat
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-30 years in captivity, unknown in the wild
Average Weight1-2 kg
Average Length15-25 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (April-June)
- Habitat
- McCord’s Box Turtle inhabits moist forested areas and wetlands. It prefers environments with abundant vegetation and access to water.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Temperate Forest
- Native Range
- This species is found in parts of Vietnam and China.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- Vietnam, China
- Diet
- This turtle primarily feeds on a variety of plant materials, fruits, and some small invertebrates. Its diet can vary based on availability in its habitat.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- Fruits, leaves, and small invertebrates
- Social Structure
- solitary
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1
- Territorial
- 0
VU
EX
1-2 kg
Weight
15-25 cm
Length
- Coloration
- The shell is typically dark brown to black with yellow or orange markings.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males tend to have a more concave plastron and larger tails than females.
- Lifespan
- 20-30 years in captivity, unknown in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-5
- Sexual Maturity
- 5-7 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (April-June)
CR
Critically Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is critically low due to habitat loss and illegal trade.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction and poaching for the pet trade.
- Predators
- Large birds and mammals may prey on eggs and juveniles.
- Defense Mechanisms
- This turtle can retract its head and limbs into its shell for protection.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon