Wood & Bog Turtles
Hardy, personable, and fascinating — Wood and Bog Turtles are among the most rewarding freshwater turtles to keep.
About Wood & Bog Turtles
Wood Turtles (Glyptemys insculpta) are widely regarded as one of the most intelligent turtle species in North America. Known for their striking orange-red skin and deeply sculptured shells, they thrive in a semi-aquatic environment with access to both land and clean water. They are active foragers and can even be trained to navigate simple mazes — a testament to their curious, interactive nature.
Bog Turtles (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) are the smallest turtle species native to North America and one of the most endangered. Their distinctive orange-yellow patches behind each eye make them instantly recognizable. Due to their protected status, only legally captive-bred specimens may be kept, and Nauti-Lass works exclusively with licensed breeders to ensure full legal compliance.
Species We Carry
Wood Turtle
Glyptemys insculpta
One of North America's most intelligent turtles. Active, personable, and highly interactive. Requires a large semi-aquatic enclosure with clean water and a dry land area for basking and foraging.
Bog Turtle
Glyptemys muhlenbergii
North America's smallest turtle and one of its most endangered. Requires specialized boggy habitat with sphagnum moss, shallow water, and cool temperatures. Only legally captive-bred specimens available.
Both Wood Turtles and Bog Turtles are protected species. Bog Turtles are federally threatened under the Endangered Species Act. All animals sold by Nauti-Lass are captive-bred and come with full documentation. Always verify your state's regulations before purchasing. View turtle laws →
Care Overview
Enclosure
Both species require semi-aquatic setups with a large land area. Wood Turtles do well in outdoor pens with a shallow pond. Bog Turtles need a specialized bog habitat with sphagnum moss substrate, shallow water, and cool temperatures (60–75°F preferred).
Diet
Wood Turtles are omnivores and enthusiastic foragers — earthworms, berries, leafy greens, and commercial turtle pellets. Bog Turtles eat small invertebrates, worms, slugs, and aquatic insects. Both benefit from a varied, protein-rich diet.
Temperature & Lighting
Wood Turtles tolerate a wide temperature range (50–85°F) and do well outdoors in temperate climates. Bog Turtles prefer cooler conditions and should not be kept in hot environments. Both species benefit from natural UVB exposure or a quality UVB lamp.
Legal Considerations
Wood Turtles are protected in many states — always verify your state's regulations before acquiring one. Bog Turtles are federally threatened under the ESA; only captive-bred specimens from licensed breeders are legal to own. Nauti-Lass provides full documentation with every animal.
Interested in Wood or Bog Turtles?
Availability varies by season. Contact us to ask about current stock, upcoming hatchlings, or to get on our waiting list.