I inherited a pet box turtle. I set up a nice habitat for him

with potting soil, bark, a fern, a hidey place, and a pool. He's a little shy and keeps popping his head back in when he sees me. Anybody got any suggestions? He is on the shady part of my porch/greenhouse and we are in Florida. Wonder if he still needs a light over him. He won't get too hot where he is.
He hasn't eaten much yet, though

You probably have a supply in your backyard. I'm not sure what else he might be interested in but you can throw whatever you find that's small enough to eat and see if any of it disappears.

If you have him indoors and away from natural sunlight, you should get a special reptile light from the pet store. Put it on a timer and then you don't have to worry about it.

but I do know this:


Wash your hands BEFORE AND AFTER you touch any part of the turtle, its cage, its food---- Turtles carry salmonella and you can become infected (or infect someone else) if you don't wash up properly. For this same reason, don't keep the turle near 'communal' food or water areas, or near your pets eating/drinking areas. Never use anything for the turtle that hasn't been specifically designated as "Turtle Only" (like rags or utensils)

and

Change their water and food every day to prevent spoilage and flies.

I'd really suggest going to the bookstore or library and getting a book on turtle care---I don't think they require alot, but I'm sure there's things you should and shouldn't give them or whatever that will make a big difference in their overall well being

Good luck!!!

PS--in the south, turtles are called 'cooters' ha ha

lettuce and hamburger (but check a book to make sure it's OK)