Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Semester of Degree Completion
2003
Thesis Director
Stephen J. Mullin
Abstract
Nest site selection in turtles might allow females to increase the survival of their offspring but little is known about the variables that influence that choice. I examined the microhabitat variables at nest sites of the eastern box turtle, Terrapene carolina carolina, at a Boy Scout camp in Shelby County, Illinois, to determine if females chose nest sites that differed from random sites within the camp. Nest sites differed from random sites in vegetation height and composition, percentage ground and canopy cover, and light intensity. All females placed their nests in open habitat within the camp or a pasture bordering the camp. I suggest that, due to the importance of incubation temperature on hatchling development, open sites were selected due to the higher incubation temperatures they provide.
Recommended Citation
Flitz, Beth, "Nest-Site Selection in the Eastern Box Turtle, Terrapene carolina carolina, in a Population in Central Illinois" (2003). Masters Theses. 1389.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/1389
