Chehaw's education collection is home to two eastern box turtles named Oliver and Hawkeye!

Eastern box turtles are a slow-moving but fascinating reptile native to forests, fields, and wetlands of the eastern United States. Known for their domed shells and hinged bottoms, or “boxes,” these turtles can completely close themselves up for protection from predators.

One of our Eastern box turtles, Hawkeye, has a special story. He was brought to Chehaw after being injured by a dog and would not have survived in the wild. Now, Hawkeye has a safe home where he helps teach visitors about turtle biology, conservation, and why wild animals belong in their natural habitats.

Eastern box turtles play an important role in their ecosystems by spreading seeds, eating insects, and helping maintain healthy habitats. At Chehaw, Hawkeye and Oliver serve as an ambassador for wildlife education, showing guests that every animal has a story and a purpose. Observing him up close offers a glimpse into the secret life of turtles and the care it takes to protect them.