We all love to receive a box of Turtles®, but the Arkansas National Heritage Commission (ANHC) wants your help to count box turtles. Whether you live in Arkansas, or just plan to visit, The Arkansas National Heritage Commission needs your help. Starting in May, anyone who spots a box turtle in the next year is asked to report the encounter.

Once thought common, the turtle might now be threatened. Their 70-year life expectancy, low reproduction rate and limited home range make them increasingly vulnerable as natural habitats shrink.

So, if you're outdoors in Arkansas, bring your binoculars and a camera. While the commission would like you to report the turtle's size and location, a picture will help confirm duplicate sightings to increase count accuracy and help researchers determine the turtle's home range.

Reports can be submitted online or over the phone. Want to help trek these gentle slowpokes? Check out the ANHC box turtle survey.

Charmian Christie,
Outdoor Adventure Expert