PA HB401

Designates the eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) as Pennsylvania's official State reptile, effective immediately upon enactment

Eastern box turtle is native to Pennsylvania, found across rural, suburban, and urban habitats including grasslands, meadows, woodlands, and forest edges

Species typically lives 25-35 years but can survive over 100 years; possesses unique hinged shell that can fully close for protection and regenerate when damaged

Population is declining due to habitat fragmentation, roadway traffic, ATV use, illegal collection, predation, disease, and natural disturbances

Designation intended to assist conservation efforts for the eastern box turtle and other reptile species including turtles, snakes, and lizards