Central PA News

The bill to designate the Eastern box turtle as Pennsylvania's official state reptile moved one step closer to realization. The House Game & Fisheries Committee unanimously supported the bill, authored by Representative Perry Stambaugh. Stambaugh, who represents the Perry and Juniata regions, introduced the measure emphasizing the turtle's broad presence across various habitats in the Commonwealth.

Stambaugh outlined the species' characteristics and ecological value during the committee meeting. A live Eastern box turtle was presented by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, offering a firsthand encounter for committee members. "The Eastern box turtle can be found across the Commonwealth in rural, suburban, and even urban habitats: shrubby grasslands, marshy meadows, open woodlands, and field forest edges," he explained.

The Eastern box turtle, known for its hinged shell that can fully enclose and protect its body, faces population risks due to several factors. Stambaugh attributed this to "habitat fragmentation, roadway traffic, incidental and illegal collection, and poor habitat management activities." He argued that official recognition could aid conservation efforts.

"Designation as the official reptile of Pennsylvania would assist in conservation efforts for the Eastern box turtle," Stambaugh said, expressing gratitude for the committee's unanimous backing and looking forward to further consideration in the House chamber.

The turtle has an impressive lifespan, often ranging from 25 to 35 years, with some individuals living over a century. Pennsylvania's adoption of the Eastern box turtle as a state symbol would place it alongside other icons, such as the mountain laurel and the white-tailed deer.

Rep. Stambaugh delivered his remarks at the committee meeting alongside Kailee Glock of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, with a turtle affectionately known as Alcatraz attending.