Book 32, Question 18 · Video
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.
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What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How can a box turtle shut its shell like a box?
The Big Idea
A box turtle can close up tight! Just like a box. How does it do that?
The Plastron
Step one: The Plastron. A box turtle's lower shell is called the plastron. It has a hinge across the middle.
Close Up
Step two: Close Up. When the turtle senses danger, it pulls in its head, legs, and tail. Then the two ends of the plastron swing up like lids, and the shell closes tightly.
Special Turtles
Step three: Special Turtles. Not every turtle can do this, which makes the box turtle special. Don't pick up wild turtles. Watch them from a distance.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! Lower shell. Across the middle. Few gaps. From a distance.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Box turtles got their name because they can close up like a box. Don't pick up wild turtles. The hinge is in the middle. Few turtles can do this.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! Get an old egg carton or piece of cardboard. Shape a top shell and a bottom shell. Make a tape hinge across the bottom shell. Open and close it. Decorate your box turtle.
Outro
A box turtle's lower shell, the plastron, has a hinge across the middle. When danger comes, it pulls everything in and swings both ends up to close tightly. Always watch wild turtles from a distance. Science is amazing! Remember, every big discovery starts with a small question. Keep looking, keep learning, and keep asking why! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!