Desert Box Turtle

Question
My husband brought home a desert box turtle and we live in an apartment. I was wondering what we could keep him in that isnt going to take up alot of room. What essentials does he need? He isnt that big, hes small, about the size of my hand (im a petite female). Thank You, Shawna

Answer
Hi Shawna,

I hope you don't mean that your husband brought home a wild box turtle...

Anyway there are some important facts about box turtles to know.  Here is a link about what you need to know:
http://www.ornatebirdgarden.com/html/turtleaspet.html

Here is a link about their care:

http://www.turtlepuddle.org/american/boxcare.html

Now you mentioned that you don't want it to take up a lot of room, but box turtles require custom built cages indoors.  Aquariums aren't big enough, are difficult to keep clean, and don't allow proper air flow.  If after reading the above links you still want help please write me back and I will help you.  You see they require exercise and will walk around for hours.  Even my turtles who have their own room want to be let out to walk around the house.

Also please consider if you have kids or want kids someday.  Turtles carry Salmonella.  Plus you have to really commit yourself... no getting rid of the turtle when the baby comes.  It's not fair to the turtle.

I don't mean to discourage you but I want to make sure you know what you are getting into before I go into detail about setting up an environment for him.  

-Amanda