I have been raising eastern box turtles for many years in a fenced in area adjacent to my pond. While they occasionally swim in the water, I have never had one eat my lily pads, but a muskrat got in once and did terrible damage.

I gave up on water turtles because they feasted on the flower buds of my lilies before they opened, but never had a problem with leaves except for the muskrat.

Thanks!

The one I saw was really neat looking with the yellow markings. He let me pick him up and look at him without going in his shell.
I hope he hangs around. It was the first time I have seen one so close to the house. Usually, I see them crossing the road.

lsst,

I don't think an Eastern box turtle will venture in your pond. They are very nice and are very shy. I once removed one from the road that had obviously had it's shell totally shattered and recovered none the less. I little known fact about these guys is that they love earthworms, slugs, and Bil Jack Dog fool. lol

Regards,
Lisa