Book 32, Question 18
How can a box turtle shut its shell like a box?
A box turtle’s lower shell, called the plastron, has a hinge across the middle.
When the turtle senses danger, it pulls in its head, legs, and tail, and the two ends of the plastron swing up like lids. The shell closes tightly, leaving few gaps. Not every turtle can do this, which makes the box turtle special. Don’t pick up wild turtles; watch from a distance.